The funeral of Katlego Bereng, a young man whose charred body was used as a decoy in a convicted murderer and rapist’s plot to escape prison, occurred at Bloemfontein’s South Park cemetery last Sunday. The funeral was attended by Bereng’s family, friends, and community members, who were all filled with sadness and confusion due to the many unanswered questions surrounding his death.
A Passionate Soccer Fan
Bereng was known for his love of soccer, and he was an avid supporter of Bloemfontein Celtic. He even composed songs for the team’s fans to sing during their games. Bereng’s passion for soccer was evident at his funeral, where mourners included supporters from Tembisa, including Bloemfontein Celtic and Kaizer Chiefs fans.
A Multitalented Individual
Bereng was also praised for his multiple talents by Mabena Pule, the national chair of Bloemfontein Celtic supporters. According to Pule, Bereng was the composer of many songs the team’s fans sang at the stadium. Bereng’s father, Batho Mpholo, is an active member of the Kaizer Chiefs supporters’ branch in Tembisa, where he resides. The Kaizer Chiefs supporters were also at the funeral to support Mpholo during this difficult time.
Unanswered Questions
Bereng’s family expressed their confusion and frustration with the many unanswered questions surrounding his death. The family is puzzled by the dropping of murder charges against the accused and the conflicting accounts of how Bereng died. One report suggests that Bereng went out with friends, allegedly from G4S, and was injured during a fight that broke out. Another account tells of him collapsing in town. The family also wonders how the government mortuary gave Bereng’s body to a stranger, resulting in it being burnt in a prison cell.
Legal Proceedings Continue
The individuals allegedly involved in this grim affair are set to re-appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court for formal bail applications. The accused include Thabo Bester’s lover Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, former G4S employees Senohe Matsoara, Motenyani Masukela, Tieho Makhotsa, Nastassja Jansen, and Teboho Lipholo. Magudumana’s father, Zolile Sekeleni, has already been granted R10,000 bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for May 16th, alongside Bester, who remains in custody.
Seeking Answers
As the legal proceedings continue, the community grieves and struggles to make sense of the unanswered questions surrounding Bereng’s tragic demise. Family, friends, and the community hope the ongoing investigation and trial will provide insight into the events leading up to Bereng’s death and shed light on how his body ended up as a decoy in a prison escape plot. But, until that day comes, the community will continue to mourn and seek answers, remembering Bereng as a beloved son, nephew, and friend with a passion for soccer and a talent for composing songs that brought joy to many.
