By Staff Reporter
TZANEEN – Controversial Bolobedu pastor Thabang Leon Malatji is expected to appear before the Tzaneen Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 21 November, where he faces serious charges including attempted murder.
Malatji is accused of pouring hot water on his girlfriend during an argument earlier this year. He is also facing additional charges of pointing a firearm, malicious damage to property, and assault.
On Wednesday, 19 November, he appeared before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on charges of assault and malicious damage to property. Bail was denied, and he remains in police custody. He has reportedly pleaded guilty to malicious damage to property but denies the other allegations.
According to the victim, the incident began when she informed Malatji that she wanted to end their relationship. She claims he became angry and threatened her. The situation allegedly escalated when he checked her phone messages and confronted her.
The incident took place in Lenyenye. Afterward, the victim says Malatji attempted to convince her not to open a case. However, when she insisted on ending the relationship, he allegedly continued to follow and confront her, including an incident in Polokwane where he is accused of blocking her car and pointing a firearm.
In another incident in Mokopane, the pastor allegedly confronted her again, causing damage to a vehicle during an argument.
Malatji is scheduled to return to the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on 4 December 2025 for the malicious damage to property and assault case. He is also expected to appear before the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court for the firearm-related charge.
