PAMPIERSTAD KILLER SENTENCED TO DOUBLE LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR MURDERING GRANDMOTHER AND TODDLER

Kimberley, 16 September 2025 – The Northern Cape SAPS welcomes the double life sentence handed down to 23-year-old Thapelo Modise, who has been permanently removed from society following his conviction for the brutal murders of a grandmother and a toddler in Pampierstad.

On 23 May 2023, Modise entered his neighbour’s house where he fatally attacked 3 year old Oratile Loeto with a braai fork.

When the child’s mother, grandmother and neighbour, tried to intervene, Modise stabbed them before locking them inside a bedroom. He then set the room alight and fled the scene.

A family member arrived home shortly thereafter and managed to break open the door, which had been secured with wire. He rescued his 71 year old mother and 21 year old sister in law. Sadly, the 74-year-old neighbour, Kgomotso Gladys Kalabatane, who had only been visiting at the time, tragically succumbed to the flames.

The surviving victims were admitted to hospital with serious stab and burn wounds. Modise was arrested shortly after the incident, and bail was successfully opposed.

On 15 September 2025, the Taung Regional Court sentenced Modise as follows:

Charge 1: Murder – Life Imprisonment

Charge 2: Murder – Life Imprisonment

Charge 3: Attempted Murder – 5 Years’ Imprisonment

The Frances Baard District Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended Detective Sergeant James Seimelo of Pampierstad SAPS Detectives for his meticulous investigative work which secured this outcome.

“Gender-Based Violence and Femicide cannot be tolerated in our communities. Brutal killers such as Thapelo Modise must be permanently removed from society to ensure safety and security for women, children, and other vulnerable groups,” said Major

General Makgari. End

Enquiries:

Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock

082 494 9982