A chilling tragedy has rocked the small village of Sebora in Ga-Mashashane, near Polokwane, Limpopo, where a 40-year-old man is accused of brutally murdering and dismembering his 87-year-old mother. The suspect, identified as Lesiba David Ledwaba, now faces serious charges and has already made a brief court appearance.
Lesiba allegedly killed his mother, Raisibe Ledwaba, in what authorities and community members are describing as a gruesome and senseless act of violence. The case was postponed to next week to allow time for a formal bail application, while investigations into the horrific incident continue.
The shocking murder has left the community in disbelief and mourning. Many residents are grappling with the gruesome details and the pain of losing a beloved elder in such a brutal manner. Raisibe, known to many as a kind and quiet figure in the village, had reportedly suffered years of abuse at the hands of her son.
According to family members, Lesiba had a long history of violence towards his mother. He is said to have frequently demanded her pension money and subjected her to physical and emotional abuse. Despite the ongoing mistreatment, Raisibe never opened a case against him, choosing instead to protect her son. Family spokesperson Ramokone Mothapo expressed heartbreak over the situation, saying, “We knew he was abusive, but she always defended him. He took advantage of her love and protection until he finally murdered her. What he did was beyond cruel.”
Concern began to grow among neighbours when Raisibe was not seen for two consecutive days. When questioned about his mother’s whereabouts, Lesiba reportedly gave conflicting and suspicious answers. This raised alarms and prompted concerned residents to alert the police.
When law enforcement officers arrived at the home, they were met with a horrific and deeply disturbing scene. Raisibe’s dismembered remains were discovered hidden in buckets. A bloodstained hacksaw and axe — believed to be the murder weapons — were also recovered at the scene.
The police have since confirmed Lesiba as the primary suspect. Limpopo police spokespersons stated that investigations are ongoing and more details will emerge as the case proceeds. For now, the community remains shaken and traumatized, struggling to come to terms with a crime so violent it has sent shockwaves across the province.
The incident has also reignited concerns about elder abuse, particularly in rural communities where resources and support structures are often limited. Many have taken to social media, calling for justice for Raisibe and raising awareness about the need to protect vulnerable seniors from domestic violence.
As the case unfolds, all eyes are on the courts and authorities, with the community hoping for justice and answers. In the meantime, residents of Sebora are left to mourn the tragic loss of a cherished elder whose life ended in unimaginable horror.