Traditional Doc allegedly burns old flame’s house down
Although their love affair ended two years ago, it seems a traditional doctor was unable to accept seeing his old flame in the arms of a new man, allegedly taking fiery revenge.
The scorned man, Kegaisamang Ramohibidu, 50, is accused of setting fire to his former girlfriend’s house in Molepolole’s Matlhalerwa ward on 6 May.
The blaze caused P8, 623 worth of damage, destroying blankets, clothes, groceries and other household properties; it could have been much worse however, as Ramohibidu’s ex, her two children and new beau all escaped unharmed.
Appearing before Molepolole Magistrates Court on Tuesday, the suspect, who pleaded not guilty, was charged with arson and remanded in custody.
The Ramotiketsane ward resident, known in the neighbourhood for his powerful traditional medicines, is said to have first met the complainant as a client, before the relationship turned romantic and they started dating.
The love affair eventually fizzled out, a development Ramohibidu apparently did not take well.
According to sources close to the case, on the night of the inferno, the 44-year-old complainant was inside her two-and-a-half house with her boyfriend, while her daughters slept in a separate room.
Just after they retired to bed around 9 pm, the eldest daughter was woken by a flash of light; groggily going to ask her mother if she was the one lighting matches, the family were startled by a rattle on the bedroom window.
Seconds later the window was smashed to pieces.
It is believed Ramohibidu then tried to force entry through the front door, but fled as the family screamed for help, having reportedly recognised the would-be intruder.
Fearing for their lives, the new lover took refuge at his home, while mum and her kids sought accommodation at a relative’s place.
They returned the next morning to find the house burnt to ashes.
Unable to use his famed mystical ‘powers’ to avoid prison, Ramohibidu was denied bail and will remain locked up until his next court appearance, scheduled for 25 June.
