Bronkhorstspruit: Bail Granted to Two Schoolboys Charged with Fatally Stabbing Classmate

Bronkhorstspruit – Two students from Lesedi Secondary School have been released on bail by the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of premeditated murder.

The first accused, 20-year-old Mlehalinye Montasi, a Grade 12 student, was granted bail set at R6 000. His co-accused, 19-year-old Kgotlhello Mathabathe, a Grade 10 student, was released on bail of R3 000.

The tragic event took place on 17 June 2025, sending shockwaves through the small town of Bronkhorstspruit, located 50 km east of Pretoria, Tshwane, following the fatal stabbing of Lethabo Mokonyane, a Grade 10 pupil.

Reports indicate that after finishing their exams, Mokonyane was making his way towards the school gate when he encountered Montasi and Mathabathe.

During the encounter, it is said that one of the accused restrained Mokonyane, while the other stabbed him multiple times with a sharp object.

Mokonyane was promptly taken to the hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.

In court, the accused requested bail, highlighting their intention to continue their education.

Prosecutor Karabo Sebela opposed the bail application, pointing out that Montasi was residing in the country without legal status, which posed a flight risk.

She also noted that both accused were known to the witnesses, raising concerns about potential interference with their testimonies.

Despite these concerns, the magistrate granted bail to both students, imposing strict conditions.

The conditions require the accused to attend all court proceedings until the trial concludes, refrain from interfering with witnesses, and comply with correctional supervision along with all related stipulations.

According to Lumka Mahanjana, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority Gauteng, the case has been postponed until 10 October 2025.