A 28-year-old South African woman, Mologadi Magdeline Mehlape, has been sentenced to life in prison for the planned killing of her father, Dr Malekutu Johannes Mehlape, who worked as a circuit manager for the Limpopo Department of Education. The sentence was handed down by the Polokwane High Court on Wednesday, June 11, after she pleaded guilty to murder and robbery under aggravating circumstances. In addition to the life sentence, she received a 15-year term for robbery. Both sentences will run at the same time.
The National Prosecuting Authority confirmed that the incident took place on December 28, 2023, in Mankweng Zone 1 near Polokwane. Dr Mehlape was shot multiple times in his bedroom, and valuables, including his mobile phone, were taken from the scene. Investigations revealed that his daughter had arranged the murder, claiming that a traditional healer, Hlologelo Klaas Mogotlane, had told her her father was responsible for her mother’s death through the use of witchcraft.
When traditional attempts to resolve the issue failed, Mehlape allegedly planned the killing alongside family members. She offered R200,000 to carry out the crime and played a direct role by unlocking the gate and front door on the night of the murder, allowing the attackers to enter while her father slept.
Four other people—Tshepo Gabriel Ranoto, Hlologelo Klaas Mogotlane, Mahlodi Melida Mathole, and Michael Sello Molongoane—face separate charges, including murder, conspiracy, armed robbery, and illegal possession of weapons. Their trial will resume on June 20.
During sentencing, Mehlape asked the court for mercy, referencing personal issues with her father and her role as a mother to a 21-month-old child. However, State Advocate Muneiwa Ratshibvumo argued that her apology lacked genuine remorse and was only offered because the evidence was overwhelming. The prosecutor described the act as cruel and calculated.
