Kamohelo Motankisi Sentenced to 210 Years for Brutal Kestell Farm Massacre
Kamohelo Motankisi Sentenced to 210 Years for Brutal Kestell Farm Massacre
In a landmark ruling on October 24, the Free State High Court in Bethlehem sentenced Kamohelo Motankisi to 210 years in prison for his role in the Kestell farm massacre. This significant sentence follows Motankisi’s conviction on multiple serious charges, including seven counts of murder, robbery under aggravating circumstances, sexual assault, and housebreaking. His sentence is a powerful message to violent criminals and reflects the gravity of the crime.
Details of the Kestell Farm Massacre
Kamohelo Motankisi, the perpetrator of the Kestell farm massacre, received a life sentence for the brutal murders of Binto Smit, her son Rhudi, and five farm workers: Nokufa Monareng, Lerato Moloi, Mothoduwa Moloi, Nomasonto Zulu, and Nomasontsha Maduna. These horrific killings occurred on October 15, 2024. In addition to the life sentence, Motankisi was sentenced to 15 years for robbery, 10 years for sexual assault, and five years for possession of an unlicensed firearm and housebreaking. Importantly, all sentences will run concurrently with the life imprisonment term.
Judicial Remarks on the Kestell Farm Massacre
During sentencing, Judge Celest Reinders acknowledged the seriousness of the case. She stressed that her decision had to reflect not only the severity of Motankisi’s crimes but also the growing concern over violent crime in South Africa. “The Kestell farm massacre is a grim reminder of the rising murder rates in the country,” she said. The judge highlighted the emotional trauma caused to the families of the victims, describing the lasting devastation felt by those left behind.
“The gravity of these murders cannot be overstated,” she remarked, emphasizing the significant impact on both the victims’ families and the broader community.
Defense and Prosecutorial Arguments
Advocate Mzingizi Vulindlela, representing Kamohelo Motankisi, argued for a more lenient sentence, citing his age (35 years) and his status as a married father of two. He claimed that Motankisi showed remorse by admitting guilt and suggested rehabilitation was possible. However, Judge Reinders rejected these claims, agreeing with State Prosecutor Advocate Antonette Ferreira, who argued that Motankisi showed no mercy during the Kestell farm massacre.
Reports from family members underscored the profound impact of the crimes, with Judge Reinders pointing out the blatant disregard for human life displayed by Motankisi.
Co-Accused and Family Reactions
In a related development, another accused, Lerato Selepe, pleaded guilty early in the trial and received a 30-year sentence. Selepe’s cooperation as a state witness helped secure Motankisi’s conviction, providing key testimony regarding the brutality of the attacks.
The courtroom was filled with emotion as the families of the victims reacted to the verdict. When Motankisi requested to apologize to the victims’ families, it resulted in a chaotic scene, demonstrating the deep pain and anger his actions had caused.
This case, involving the Kestell farm massacre, highlights the judiciary’s commitment to confronting violent crime and ensuring that justice is served for the victims and their families.
