By Staff Reporter
POLOKWANE — Sergeant Rachel Kutumela, a 43-year-old police officer from Senwabarwana, is set to apply for bail today at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court, amid allegations of a shocking scheme involving multiple murders and insurance fraud.
Kutumela faces six counts of murder and additional charges of insurance fraud for allegedly orchestrating a plot that preyed upon disadvantaged individuals, including people with disabilities.
According to court documents, Kutumela is accused of taking out life insurance policies on unsuspecting victims, later murdering them to claim the payouts.
The scheme, believed to have run for several years, has sent ripples of fear through the Senwabarwana community, where Kutumela was a respected officer.
Two family members also stand accused in connection with the scheme. Florah Shokane, Kutumela’s 47-year-old sister and a nurse, along with Annah Shokane, Kutumela’s 27-year-old daughter, face charges of money laundering and benefiting from the proceeds of the alleged crimes.
Authorities believe the pair assisted Kutumela in laundering the insurance payouts to avoid suspicion.
The state is anticipated to vigorously oppose Kutumela’s bail application, citing the severity of the charges and public safety concerns.
The proceedings, which are set to run until Friday, have drawn widespread attention, with community members and activists calling for justice for the victims.
Investigators have described the alleged scheme as one of the most disturbing cases in recent memory, given the apparent betrayal of trust by an officer of the law.
Legal experts predict that if bail is denied, Kutumela and her co-accused could face a lengthy legal battle as the full scope of the alleged crimes is brought to light.
