Elisha Molefe

Elisha Molefe

Mmabatho police in North West are investigating a case of murder after the body of a 26-year-old man was found with stab wounds on the chest and back at the weekend.

Mmabatho police spokesman Captain Sabata Mokgwaabone said a 19-year-old man from Seweding village near Mmabatho has been arrested in connection with the murder.

The man is expected to appear at the Mmabatho magistrates' court today.

l Meanwhile, the Mmabatho police are investigating a case of arson after two offices of the Mmabatho regional court were gutted by fire at the weekend.

It is alleged the fire started in the storeroom and spread to the neighbouring office.

"The fire brigade put out the fire before it spread to other offices. It is not known what caused the fire," said Sabata Mokgwaabone.

Isaac Manyathela, an employee of the Mmabatho regional court, said the fire had not disrupted the daily running of the court.

"Everything is running smoothly," Manyathela said.

"What we have lost are few law reports, but everything is okay for now."

Manyathela said the extent of the damage was not yet known.

When the Sowetan arrived at the scene, forensic investigators from Pretoria were still combing the area for evidence.