Mochoari briefly appeared before the Batho Court on Friday, 12 June, where the matter was postponed. He was released on a warning and instructed to return to court on the scheduled date. The victim, 21-year-old Masego Mogorosi, was also present during the court proceedings.
The case gained national attention after a video of the incident circulated widely across social media platforms. The footage allegedly shows Mochoari physically attacking Mogorosi while several bystanders attempt to intervene and stop the confrontation.
According to Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli, the suspect was arrested after the video went viral. He currently faces a preliminary charge of common assault in connection with the incident, which occurred on Wednesday.
The video captures a heated verbal confrontation involving Mogorosi and two adults, a man and a woman travelling in a Volkswagen vehicle. As the argument escalates, the situation turns violent, with the male individual seen assaulting the young woman.
Kareli stated that Mogorosi is a student teacher at the University of the Free State’s Bloemfontein campus and is currently completing her experiential teaching programme at Lekhulong Secondary School in Rocklands.
“We strongly plead for calm and space to allow the police investigation to take its natural course. The South African Police Service views all acts of violence, particularly against vulnerable individuals, in a serious light and is committed to ensuring that justice is served,” Kareli said.
A criminal case was subsequently registered at Kagisanong Police Station, where further investigations are continuing.
In a Facebook post, Mogorosi recounted the events leading up to the assault. She stated that she and several colleagues were walking to purchase lunch from an outlet near the school when they encountered a driver who allegedly failed to use an indicator and drove dangerously close to the pavement.
“Concerned about our safety, we attempted to address the matter with the driver. However, instead of acknowledging our concerns, he allegedly became aggressive and threatened me,” Mogorosi wrote.
The victim further appealed to law enforcement authorities and the university administration to ensure a thorough investigation and to guarantee that justice is served.
The case has intensified public concern over violent confrontations in public spaces and the conduct captured in viral social media content. With the investigation ongoing and court proceedings set to resume on 15 July, authorities face increasing pressure to ensure accountability and a transparent legal process.
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