Former Cop’s Brother Arrested in Alleged Polokwane Murder-for-Money Scheme

A chilling tale of greed and betrayal is unfolding in Polokwane after a former police officer’s brother was arrested in connection with an alleged murder-for-money ring. The case, which has rocked the Limpopo community, paints a disturbing picture of how life and funeral insurance policies were allegedly used as a cover for murder and fraud.

A Family Under Fire

The latest arrest involves 53-year-old Leshweng Johannes Shokane, who appeared briefly in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court. He faces nine counts of murder, alongside charges of money laundering, receiving proceeds of crime, and defeating the ends of justice.

His arrest links him directly to his sister, former Senwabarwana police officer Rachel Raesetsa Shokane Kutumela, and co-accused Annah Shokane and Madjadji Flora Shokane all of whom have been implicated in a long-running insurance scam that prosecutors say spanned nearly a decade.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the accused allegedly orchestrated a scheme between 2013 and 2022, where fraudulent life and funeral policies were taken out in the names of unsuspecting victims. Once the victims died, payouts totalling around R10 million were allegedly claimed from major financial institutions including ABSA, Standard Bank, Capitec, Hollard, Assupol, Old Mutual, One Life, and Clientele.

The Shocking Allegations

NPA spokesperson Mashudu Malabi revealed that Johannes was arrested on Tuesday and remains behind bars pending a bail hearing scheduled for November 18. The State has applied to join him to the main trial, which is already underway in the Polokwane High Court.

“The accused allegedly shared the unlawful proceeds among themselves,” said Malabi, adding that the matter reflects how financial gain can corrupt even those once sworn to uphold the law.

A Community In Shock

The story has drawn intense public attention in Limpopo, especially given the involvement of a former police officer. Locals have expressed anger and disbelief on social media, with many calling for the justice system to impose harsh penalties.

“People trusted the police to protect them, not profit from their deaths,” one user wrote on Facebook, echoing the broader public outrage.

What Comes Next

The case has been described by investigators as one of the most complex insurance fraud and murder schemes uncovered in the province in years. The ongoing High Court trial will determine the fate of the accused, who remain in custody pending further hearings.

As Limpopo residents follow the developments with growing unease, the case serves as a stark reminder of how greed can destroy families, careers, and lives sometimes all at once.

{Source:IOL}

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