Gorata Dolly Balemoge, a notorious female housebreaker whose arrest was captured in a viral video on social media in Chocholoza, Lobatse, has been remanded in custody by the Lobatse Magistrates’ Court.
The 47-year-old, known as a chef and hairdresser, was caught red-handed stealing from a nurse’s residence.
Balemoge, released from jail early last year, had a previous conviction in 2018 for various cases, including malicious damage to property, housebreaking, and theft from dwellings across the country.
Superintendent Daniel Katse, the Woodhall police station commander, confirmed that Balemoge faces about 15 cases in various locations, including Gaborone, Selebi-Phikwe, Jwaneng, and Maun.
“After being arrested breaking into the nurse’s house, she appeared before court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to the charges. Investigations revealed her association with several cases, including a recent one in which she broke into another house in Pitikwe village,” explained Superintendent Katse.
Balemoge, reportedly armed with a crowbar and pickaxe, targeted homes to steal items such as shoes, clothes with expensive labels, bedding, food, electronic gadgets, and money.
In November 2019, she was sentenced to a seven-year jail term by a Molepolole Magistrates’ Court for four counts of housebreaking.
Known for wearing different wigs or synthetic hair during theft operations, she had been featured on a police ‘wanted’ list for various offenses across the country.
Balemoge’s criminal record dates back to 1997, with multiple convictions.
In previous court appearances, she cited a troubled upbringing under her grandmother’s care, expressing remorse and claiming to have found solace in prison through associating with people of good character and embracing Christianity.
Regarding her latest incarceration and continued criminal activity, Superintendent Katse mentioned that counseling has been booked for Balemoge, in addition to the counseling provided in prison.
The court has scheduled her next appearance for February 14th.