MBOMBELA – Katlego Mokoena told the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, March 2, that he intends to plead not guilty to the murder of his alleged former girlfriend, Lusanda Mathabela (20).
The 19-year-old stated this during his bail hearing, with his affidavit read into the record. Mokoena and his co-accused, Lungelo Sithole (19) are facing a murder charge for allegedly stabbing Mathabela to death at her Mataffin, Mbombela home in November 2025. Defence attorney, Bontle Lebotse presented Mokoena’s affidavit, where he stated that he intends to plead not guilty to the charges, citing lack of access to the docket. “I intend to plead not guilty to the charges as I only know the charge preferred against me and I have not had access to the contents of the docket,” read the affidavit.
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While pleading for bail, he affirmed his commitment to stand trial and denied any intent to flee or interfere with the case. “Should I be granted bail, I will not endanger the safety of the public. I will not evade my trial and I will prepare to stand trial, attend court every time, every day required of me by the court. I will not attempt to influence or intimidate witnesses or consider or destroy evidence,” he said.
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His legal representative further argued that his bail is in the interest of justice due to the fact that he does not have previous convictions, and has never been in conflict with the law. Lebotse added that Mokoena fully cooperated with the police at the time of his arrest. The court also heard that prior to Mokoena’s arrest, he was employed and was assisting his mother financially in taking care of his two younger siblings. However, the State opposed his bail, citing potential public disturbance due to the nature of the crime.
His co-accused, Sithole was previously denied by the State due to the seriousness of the case and strong evidence against him.
Magistrate Bernard Luvhimbi told the court that judgment in Mokoena’s bail application will be handed down next Monday, March 9, 2026.
