Authorities in North West have confirmed the recovery of the body of Simon Mogomotsi Molokoane (43), the prime suspect in the alleged murder of his wife, Kopano Pleasure Molokoane, bringing an intense multi-day manhunt to a close.
Molokoane’s body was discovered in a dam in Luka, Tlebebe Section, after police were alerted to an abandoned vehicle found nearby. His Nissan NP300 work bakkie, left at the edge of the dam on Tuesday, immediately drew investigators to the area, prompting a coordinated search involving police divers and local emergency personnel.
According to police, early indications suggest that Molokoane may have taken his own life by entering the water shortly after fleeing the scene of the alleged murder. His wife, Kopano, was killed in Phokeng, a case that shocked the community and sparked widespread calls for justice.
Provincial police officials confirmed that Molokoane had been the subject of an intensive manhunt, with teams deployed across Rustenburg and surrounding communities. The discovery of the deserted bakkie became the key breakthrough that led investigators to the dam.
Residents in Luka gathered near the scene as recovery efforts unfolded, expressing both relief and sorrow. Community leaders noted that while the suspect’s death closes one chapter, the pain inflicted on the victim’s family remains immeasurable.
Police say a post-mortem will be conducted to determine the exact cause and time of death, though no foul play is suspected at this stage. The investigation into the murder of Kopano Pleasure Molokoane continues, with authorities expected to compile a final case report for the family.
The incident has reignited conversations around gender-based violence in the province, with advocacy groups urging stronger intervention measures and improved community support systems.
Authorities have thanked the public for assisting during the search and have appealed for privacy for both families as they navigate the aftermath of the tragic events.
The community of Rustenburg now grapples with the chilling end of a case that has left two lives lost and a family shattered.
