Hope of Achievers Rehabilitation Centre (HOAR) boss, Watson Luandi, could remain behind bars for the duration of his court proceedings after it emerged in court that he may be in South Africa illegally.
Luandi, a Zimbabwean national, appeared alongside four co-accused at the Tzaneen Magistrate’s Court on April 23 and 24 for a bail application, which was ultimately denied.
The group faces a murder charge following the death of 22-year-old Thato Dikgwatlhe. Thato had been admitted to the rehabilitation centre on October 12, 2025, for alcohol abuse treatment but died three weeks later, on November 3, after allegedly being assaulted at the facility in Segwashe village near Mankweng, outside Polokwane.
According to reports presented in court, Thato and four other patients had escaped from the centre but were later tracked down. It is alleged they were severely assaulted with various objects upon being found. Thato later succumbed to his injuries.
During the bail hearing, Luandi’s lawyer, Marothi Mawasha, argued that his client is a married man and the sole breadwinner, adding that his wife is struggling to pay rent and meet basic needs.
However, State prosecutor Mozane Mangena opposed the application, citing findings from the investigating officer, Sergeant Mathebula.
The report indicated that Luandi has no fixed address, with the residences he provided belonging to his in-laws rather than himself.
Mangena further told the court that Luandi’s permit to stay in South Africa expired in March 2024 and that he failed to renew it before his arrest. She also stated that his mother-in-law indicated he would not be welcome to stay with them if released on bail, citing cultural reasons.
The State also argued that Luandi poses a risk of intimidating witnesses if released.
Bail applications for the co-accused were also denied. Legal representatives for Thabang Sello Mokoena (accused number one), Tshegofatso Mabulane, Jacob Mashishi, and Kgomotso Malebane argued for their clients’ release, but the court dismissed all submissions.
Presiding officer, M.C. Mphago postponed the matter to May 5, when a decision will be made regarding the bail status of Luandi and his co-accused.
Meanwhile, two additional suspects who were previously granted bail are expected to appear before the same court on April 29.
Thato’s father, Pule Dikgwatlhe welcome the decision by court to deny bail for the suspects, saying: “As family we welcome the decision. We will not rest until justice is served for our son.”
