A 50-year-old man from Molepolole has appeared before the Magistrates Court, facing charges related to the alleged physical mistreatment of his 11-year-old son.
Kealeboga Daniel Leburu, a resident of Bokone ward, was charged with cruel punishment of a child following an incident said to have occurred on 25 March 2025. It is alleged that the father reacted violently after a misunderstanding involving a small purchase for their family tuck shop.
During his court appearance last Tuesday, Principal Magistrate Solomon Setshedi granted Leburu bail but issued a stern warning, noting that the accused was fortunate the investigating officer had not opposed bail.
“You’re lucky the Investigating Officer didn’t oppose bail. Otherwise, I would have remanded you until the matter was concluded,” Magistrate Setshedi told the accused.
Bail was granted on condition that Leburu enters into his own recognizance of P2,000 and secures three sureties of the same amount. The court further instructed that he refrain from any form of physical or emotional abuse toward the child.
According to Molepolole Station Commander Superintendent Jacob Molapong, the incident unfolded after Leburu sent his son to buy tobacco using money that was also meant to include a small treat. The child allegedly opted for ice cream instead of sweets, but returned without the tobacco when prices proved too high.
Upon learning this, tensions reportedly escalated at home, leading to a heated dispute between Leburu and the child’s mother. It was during this altercation that the alleged assault took place.
Superintendent Molapong confirmed that the investigation is nearing completion, with only two witness statements pending.
The case is scheduled for mention on 3 June 2025, as the court awaits the final stages of the inquiry.
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