In a heartbreaking and chilling twist, the Polokwane High Court has sentenced 28-year-old Mologadi Magdeline Mehlape to life imprisonment for the premeditated murder of her father, Dr Malekutu Johannes Mehlape, a respected education official in Limpopo.
Mehlape, who also received 15 years for robbery, admitted to unlocking the gate and front door, allowing killers into her father’s bedroom, where he was shot multiple times on December 28, 2023. The sentences will run concurrently.
According to the NPA, she masterminded the murder based on disturbing advice from a traditional healer, co-accused Hlologelo Klaas Mogotlane, who claimed her father used muti (witchcraft) to kill her mother. Failing to retaliate spiritually, she offered R200,000 to have him assassinated.
Despite pleading for mercy due to her role as a mother to a 21-month-old child, the court slammed her apology as fake and self-serving. State Advocate Muneiwa Ratshibvumo called the crime “gruesome and heartless.”
Four others linked to the plot will face trial on June 20 for conspiracy, murder, robbery, and firearm charges.
This case has stunned the nation and sparked intense debate about belief systems, family betrayal, and justice.
