- “I need to sell my livestock so l can hire a lawyer to represent me in this matter.”
Suspected killer in the murder case of eight-year-old wheel chair bound Loretta Mongwa of Maaloso Ward in Tonota was on Monday denied bail by Francistown Magistrate Court.
The suspect, Modisaotsile Peter who is alleged to have murdered his girlfriend’s eight-year-old daughter two days after Christmas, was appearing for the second time in court since the gruesome murder, and told Francistown Magistrate he wanted bail, so that he has time to sell his livestock in order to engage an attorney for the case.
“I have cows which I want to sell in order to raise money to hire a lawyer to represent me in this matter,” cited Peter. Unshaken and showing no sign of remorse, the 36-year-old Peter quizzed the court why he was being charged when police had not concluded their investigations.
Principal Magistrate Kabelo Magetse quashed Peter’s bail application, indicating that police investigations were still in progress.
“It would be premature for me to grant you bail at this moment. Police are still investigating this incident and key witnesses have not been interviewed. The prosecution has indicated that your release is likely to interfere with investigations. And for your safety and the interest of society it is better you are remanded. As for engaging an attorney of your choice, you have the right to do so. However, I advise you ask your family or relatives to sell the livestock on your behalf,” explained Magistrate Magetse.
Peter allegedly killed the physically challenged girl, on the 27th of last month after she was left in his care by his girlfriend as she went out to entertain herself. Eight-year-old Loretta’s mother made the heart-breaking discovery the same night, as she walked in to find the lifeless body of her daughter hanging from their house roof rafters. The suspected killer is said to have vanished from the scene. Peter returns to court next week Monday.
