Thubelihle Sbonakaliso Mpisi, a 30-year-old legal practitioner, appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, facing charges of brutally murdering his girlfriend, Mahlako Malebo Rabalao, aged 27.
Thubelihle Mpisi: Evidence that places him as prime suspect in Mahlako Rabalao murder
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed the accusations against Mpisi, who stands accused of burning Rabalao’s body inside a vehicle.
Discovery of Mahlako Malebo Rabalao’s Remains
On 7 March 2023, Gauteng police received a distress call about a burning vehicle in Midrand.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities made a gruesome discovery—human remains were found on the front seat of the vehicle.
After investigation, it was confirmed that the remains belonged to Mahlako Malebo Rabalao. This shocking revelation led the police to launch an urgent and thorough investigation into the case.
Thubelihle Sbonakaliso Mpisi Identified as Prime Suspect
During the course of the investigation, Thubelihle Sbonakaliso Mpisi, Rabalao’s boyfriend, emerged as the prime suspect in the murder. Police swiftly acted on the leads, and a warrant for Mpisi’s arrest was issued.
He was subsequently apprehended in KwaZulu-Natal on Friday, 28 July 2023.
Court Appearance and Remand in Custody
Following his arrest, Mpisi appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, where he was remanded in custody.
The court has scheduled his next appearance for a possible bail hearing, which is set for Monday, 7 August 2023.
Until then, he remains in custody as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
Gauteng Police’s Commitment to Tackling Gender-Based Violence
The case highlights the grave issue of gender-based violence in South Africa. Gauteng provincial commissioner of police, Lieutenant General Elias Mawela, reaffirmed the police’s commitment to prioritising cases where women and children are victims.
The arrest of the prime suspect and the ongoing investigation serve as a testament to the dedication and diligence of the police force in seeking justice for Rabalao and her family.
