A senior state advocate in the Asset Forfeiture Unit, Advocate Lucas Motshabi, has been denied bail by the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court following allegations of assault, malicious damage to property, and contravention of a protection order.
The ruling comes after the State successfully argued that Motshabi posed a flight risk and that the complainant feared for her life. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Motshabi, 42, is facing charges including contravention of a protection order, malicious damage to property, and assault with grievous bodily harm.
Allegations of Domestic Violence
It is alleged that in November 2025, his wife obtained a protection order against him. In February 2026, despite a temporary withdrawal of charges through mediation, he allegedly returned unannounced to the couple’s former residence, assaulted his wife, damaged her property, and left minor children present during the incident.
Police investigations led to Motshabi handing himself over on March 3, after which he was arrested. During the bail hearing, advocate Tumelo Letaoana successfully opposed his release, citing the seriousness of the alleged offences.
Consequences of Domestic Violence
Motshabi also allegedly destroyed the motor gate and deflated all four tyres of her car. The NPA remains resolute in its mandate to act decisively against all forms of criminality, including domestic violence, and to ensure accountability within its own ranks.
For more information on domestic violence and the support available to victims, visit the UN Women website.
- Contravention of a protection order
- Malicious damage to property
- Assault with grievous bodily harm
The case highlights the importance of taking domestic violence allegations seriously and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
