Dealsville, Free State – The Regional Court in Dealsville has sentenced Itumeleng Mokoena (24) to life imprisonment for the murder of schoolteacher Mosiwa Tshabagae (42), whose death shocked the small Free State town in September 2024. Mokoena also received 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances and 3 years for housebreaking, with the court ordering that all sentences run concurrently, resulting in a life term.

Details of the Dealsville Teacher Murder Case

On the evening of 21 September 2024, Mokoena broke into Tshabagae’s home in Dealsville. When confronted, he attacked and strangled the teacher, later stabbing him several times in the neck. The court heard that Tshabagae suffered fatal injuries at the scene.

After the killing, Mokoena stole several of the victim’s belongings, including clothes and a laptop, before fleeing. The next day, residents saw him wearing Tshabagae’s clothes in town and immediately alerted the police. Officers acted swiftly, arresting Mokoena and recovering the stolen laptop in his possession.

During interrogation, Mokoena confessed to the crime and took police investigators to the crime scene for a formal pointing out.

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Court Proceedings and Life Sentence for Itumeleng Mokoena

On 20 October 2025, Mokoena pleaded guilty to all charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and housebreaking. Regional Court Prosecutor Leon Ehlers led the case for the state, describing the murder as “a senseless and violent act committed against a man who dedicated his life to education and community upliftment.”

In delivering judgment, the court emphasized the brutality of the crime and the need to protect citizens from violent offenders. The presiding magistrate noted that Mokoena had shown some remorse through his confession but said the severity of the attack and its impact on the community warranted nothing less than a life sentence.

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Family of Mosiwa Tshabagae Speaks After the Verdict

A family representative of the late Tshabagae delivered a moving testimony, describing the devastating loss the murder caused.

“We lost a pillar of strength,” the relative said. “He was more than a teacher — he was a mentor to many young people in Dealsville. His death broke our hearts and left a wound that will never fully heal.”

The family also expressed gratitude to the police, prosecutors, and community members whose cooperation led to Mokoena’s arrest within hours of the incident.

NPA Welcomes Sentence in Free State Teacher Murder

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Free State welcomed the outcome, calling it a victory for justice and community safety.

“This sentence sends a strong message that violence, especially against those who serve their communities, will not be tolerated,” said NPA spokesperson Phaladi Shuping. “We commend the teamwork between investigators, the prosecution team, and residents who ensured justice was served.”

The NPA reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for victims of violent crime, adding that every conviction strengthens public confidence in the rule of law.

Community Mourns Beloved Teacher and Demands Justice

Residents of Dealsville have continued to pay tribute to Tshabagae, describing him as a dedicated educator and role model. Candlelight vigils were held at the school where he taught, and pupils have since launched a small memorial initiative in his honour.

One community member said, “Dealsville will always remember him. He was the kind of teacher who cared not only about marks but about the future of every child.”

The conviction brought some measure of closure, though many said the pain remains deep.

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South Africa’s Justice System Sends a Message on Violent Crime

The case stands as a reminder of how community vigilance and swift police action can help bring justice to victims and their families. It also highlights the importance of addressing rising violence in small towns across South Africa, where educators, health workers, and other community servants often face threats from local crime.

The Free State NPA reiterated its promise to “be vigorous in the pursuit of justice and ensure that those who commit such crimes are held accountable.”

Missing Person South Africa News Desk