By Everson Luhanga
A police sergeant, her sister, and her daughter are in custody, facing charges of murder and insurance fraud amounting to R10-million.
Rachel Kutumela, a 43-year-old sergeant from Senwabarwana police station, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on Friday with her sister, Annah Shokane, 47, and her daughter, Madjadji Flora Shokane, 23.
They are from the village of Moletjie Makgofe in Limpopo.
Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, the National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson in Limpopo, said the three face six counts of murder, receiving proceeds from unlawful activities, 12 counts of fraud, and defeating the ends of justice.
Kutumela and her daughter have also been charged with money laundering.
Malabi-Dzhangi confirmed that Annah and Madjadji were arrested on 17 October 2024.
Kutumela allegedly took out life and funeral insurance policies on her victims, receiving R10-million in payouts as the sole beneficiary.
The insurance money came from Absa, Standard Bank, Capitec, Hollard, Assupol, Old Mutual, Onelife, and Clientele.
“It is alleged that Kutumela shared the proceeds with her sister and daughter,” said Malabi-Dzhangi.
The crimes, which began in 2019, included the deaths of several victims in different locations. One woman was burned in her shack, and a disabled man was found drowned in a dam.
More arrests are expected as investigations continue.
The trio’s bail hearing has been postponed to 30 and 31 October and 1 November, and they will remain in custody until then.
Pictured above: Sergeant Rachel Kutumela, her sister Annah Shokane, and her daughter Madjadji Flora Shokane appeared in the Polokwane Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Source: NPA
