Key Takeaways
- Tebogo Mnisi (38) is accused of shooting and killing his cousins, Tshiamo (22) and Baleseng Moramaga (21), in Mamelodi East on 26 October 2025.
- The case was initially heard in Mamelodi Magistrates Court and has been transferred to the North Gauteng High Court, with trial set for 22 February 2027‑5 March 2027.
- Mnisi also faces charges related to the alleged killing of his pregnant girlfriend, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful ammunition.
- The victims’ aunt, Nthabiseng Buthelezi, demands a severe sentence, stating Mnisi “deserves more than a life sentence.”
- The National Prosecuting Authority confirms two counts of premeditated murder, attempted murder, and firearm‑related offences against the suspect.
Case Overview
The tragic incident that led to the current proceedings occurred in Extension 17, Mamelodi East, Tshwane, on the night of 26 October 2025. Tebogo Mnisi, a 38‑year‑old motor mechanic, allegedly opened fire on his two cousins, Tshiamo Moramaga, aged 22, and her younger brother Baleseng Moramaga, aged 21. Both victims succumbed to gunshot wounds at the scene. The violence shocked the local community, prompting an immediate police response and a subsequent homicide investigation that uncovered additional allegations against Mnisi.
Arrest and Initial Detention
Following a swift manhunt, police apprehended Mnisi on 27 October 2025 at a petrol filling station along Solomon Mahlangu Drive. Officers recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the shooting, as well as ammunition that was not licensed for civilian possession. Mnisi was taken into custody and brought before the Mamelodi Magistrates Court for his first appearance on Monday, 5 October 2025. The arrest marked the beginning of a legal process that would eventually elevate the matter to a higher court due to the gravity of the charges.
Charges Laid by the Prosecution
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Lumka Mahanjana, outlined the specific counts against Mnisi. He faces two counts of premeditated murder for the deaths of Tshiamo and Baleseng Moramaga, one count of attempted murder (presumably relating to an additional target or a surviving witness), possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlawful ammunition. These charges reflect both the violent nature of the act and the statutory violations surrounding the weapons used.
Additional Allegations Involving a Pregnant Partner
During hearings in June, the court heard testimony suggesting that Mnisi also allegedly killed his pregnant girlfriend, Tshiamo, who was in the early stages of pregnancy at the time of her death. This allegation adds a disturbing layer to the case, implying a pattern of domestic violence that culminated in multiple fatalities. The prosecution has indicated that this incident will be examined as part of the broader narrative of Mnisi’s alleged criminal conduct.
Transfer to the North Gauteng High Court
Given the severity of the offences and the potential for a lengthy trial, the Mamelodi Magistrates Court transferred the matter to the North Gauteng High Court. The transfer is standard procedure when cases involve charges that may attract sentences exceeding the magistrates’ court’s jurisdictional limits or when complex legal issues arise. The High Court setting ensures that the trial will be presided over by a judge with appropriate experience in handling serious criminal matters.
Trial Schedule and Expected Duration
The trial is scheduled to commence on 22 February 2027 and is expected to run until 5 March 2027, spanning approximately two weeks. This timeframe allows for the presentation of evidence, witness testimony, expert analysis, and legal arguments from both the prosecution and the defence. The relatively condensed schedule reflects the court’s intention to manage the case efficiently while still affording both sides a fair opportunity to present their positions.
Family’s Demand for Justice
Nthabiseng Buthelezi, the aunt of the deceased cousins, has been vocal about the family’s desire for a harsh penalty. In public statements, she declared that Mnisi “deserves more than a life sentence” and urged the court to ensure he “rots in jail.” Her sentiments echo the community’s outrage and underscore the profound impact the loss has had on the victims’ relatives, who seek both retribution and closure through the judicial process.
Statements from the National Prosecuting Authority
Lumka Mahanjana reiterated the NPA’s commitment to seeing justice served. She confirmed that, following thorough police investigations, the accused was arrested at the petrol station on Solomon Mahlangu Drive on 27 October 2025. The spokesperson emphasized that the evidence gathered—including ballistic reports, eyewitness accounts, and forensic findings—supports the charges laid and will be presented comprehensively during the trial.
Implications for the Legal System and Community
The case highlights several broader concerns: the prevalence of illegal firearms in certain communities, the intersection of domestic violence with lethal outcomes, and the challenges faced by lower courts when handling high‑stakes criminal matters. The transfer to the High Court signals a recognition of the case’s complexity and the need for rigorous judicial scrutiny. Meanwhile, the community’s outcry for a stringent sentence reflects a demand for deterrence and reassurance that the justice system will respond decisively to such violent crimes.
