Tshegofatso Pule: Alleged mastermind behind her death says he fears for his life

Ntuthuko Shoba, the alleged mastermind behind Tshegofatso Pule and her unborn baby’s death back in June, will now be detained at the Johannesburg prison in a single cell. 

The Roodeport Magistrate’s Court made the ruling on Tuesay 25 May after Shoba applied to remain in custody at the Krugersdorp Police Station out of fear for his life. 

SHOBA CLAIMS HE HAS RECEIVED DEATH THREATS….SUPPOSEDLY FROM MALEPHANE

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Shoba claimed that he received threats from none other than Muzikayise Malephane who is currently serving his sentence. If you’re not sure who Malephane is, we’ve got you covered. He was arrested first following the brutal death of Tshegofatso Pule and later pleaded guilty to the murder. 

He later entered into a plea and sentencing agreement with the State which implicated Shoba. Malephane, singing like a canary, claimed that Shoba contracted him to commit the murder. The court then confirmed the plea agreement on the condition that he testifies in the state’s case against Shoba. 

Now, Shoba has made a desperate plea to avoid being kept at the Johannesburg prison. According to the NPA, he said he feared for his life after becoming aware of threats by Malephane to harm him.

Correctional Officer, Lesetja Masenya, explained to the court on Tuesday that sentenced prisoners and awaiting trial detainees are kept at different buildings in Jhb prison. Shoba and Malephane, therefore, cannot meet or have access to each other. 

Correctional Officer, Lesetja Masenya. Image via: @NPA_Prosecutes / Twitter

Shoba’s trial in relation to the brutal murder of Tshegofatso Pule will start in the Johannesburg High Court on Friday 28 May.

TSHEGOFATSO PULE FOUND HANGING FROM A TREE 

Tshegofatso Pule was found stabbed and hanging from a tree in Roodeport in June last year and she was eight months pregnant at the time of her death. The incident sparked an outcry from the community and pushed government to prioritise the issue of gender-based violence (GBV).

Reports indicate that Shoba didn’t want his wife to find out that Tshegofatso Pule was pregnant and so paid Malephane – the hitman – R70 000. It is also said she was shot first and later hung. 

According to Power FM, Shoba is also expected to be represented by a new lawyer on Friday as, Shaddy Sithole who initially represented him, withdrew from the case.