Maseru – Senior Superintendent Leluma Mahlelebe, the second in command at Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI), has been obliged by the Commission of Inquiry Chairperson Justice Realeboha Mathaba to identify officers in footage showing the brutal assault of two escaped inmates upon their recapture. Regardless of his fears for personal safety, Mahlelebe must name the officers involved.
The inquiry, led by Chairperson Justice Realeboha Mathaba, is investigating the brutal recapture and following assault of inmates Bokang Tsoako and Seboka Motumi, an incident that has thrown the Lesotho Correctional Service (LCS) into the public eye.
Senior Superintendent Mahlelebe’s hesitancy to give out names, citing fears for his life, has only added to the pressure. However, Justice Mathaba was firm, compelling Mahlelebe to cooperate fully.
“The commission has decided that you are bound to provide this information,” Mathaba stated, reinforcing the importance of transparency and responsibility in the inquiry.
The footage showed Correctional Officer Ratsetse actively participating in the assault. Despite this, Ratsetse’s lawyer disputed the identification, arguing that his client was off duty on 22 December 2023, the day the incident occurred. Mahlelebe, however, stood firm, insisting that Ratsetsewas indeed the officer in question.
“The individual in the footage, seen beating up the inmates, is indisputably my client,” said Ratsetse’s lawyer, aiming to cast doubt on the credibility of the visual evidence. Justice Mathaba warned that Ratsetse would need to testify to clarify his involvement.
Assistant Commissioner Tsoto Manaka also provided testimony, identifying another officer from the footage. Manaka defined a scene where the officer, clearly visible, beat the inmates before hiding a baton in his waist. Despite being cross-examined, Manaka maintained his stance, emphasizing his commitment to upholding international standards against inmate mistreatment.
“Lesotho is a member to international instruments against the ill-treatment of inmates,” Manaka declared. “It is our responsibility to protect the rights of inmates, not violate them.”
The inquiry also heard from Advocate Mahlomola Manyokole, who defended his client against accusationsof causing the death of inmate Bokang Tsoako. Manyokole suggested that the use of force was moderate and not excessive, citing a doctor’s report that indicated Tsoako died from internal bleeding. He implied at a deeper issue within the LCS, alleging that senior officers often mistreat recruits.
“My client did not use excessive force. This points to a culture of abuse within the LCS that needs urgent addressing.” Manyokole argued
Advocate Ben Mokobori, representing another implicated officer, opposed that there was no evidence against his client. During cross-examination of Assistant Commissioner Manaka, Mokobori emphasized contradictions in the identification of his client, who was allegedly seen in a reflector jacket in the footage.
Manaka remained firm, stating that he clearly recognized Mokobori’s client, especially when he was wearing a beret. This persistent identification despite legal challenges underscores the complexity and high stakes of the inquiry.
As the inquiry progresses, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the December 2023 events that led to the escape, following recapture, and alleged mistreatment of inmates at MCCI. The Commission wishes to provide a complete report that do not only addresses the immediate incident but also offers recommendations to prevent future occurrences.
Justice Mathaba’s firm leadership in compelling testimonies and the unwavering attitude of officials like Assistant Commissioner Manaka highlight a commitment to transparency and justice. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the inquiry can unravel the truth and initiate much-needed reforms within the LCS.
