Heirs fight over M450,000 Leribe property
Deceased businessman's family claims ownership of commercial plots sold in 2000.
Heirs of businessman Aslam Abubaker are suing Tau Mokhofu in the Leribe Magistrate’s Court over commercial property in Maputsoe allegedly purchased for M450,000 in 2000. The dispute involves two plots, with the heirs seeking transfer of portions they say their father bought. Mr Mokhofu allegedly sold portions of the plots but later transferred one to his son.
Mr Mokhofu, 88, testified that he sold Aslam Abubaker half of Plot No. 147 and half of Plot No. 153, receiving M450,000. However, he only secured a lease for Plot No. 153 in 2015, 15 years later, and transferred it to his son, Morapeli Mokhofu, in May 2016. Regarding Plot No. 147, Mr Mokhofu claimed his signature on a deed of transfer presented by Abubaker was forged.
The case adds to ongoing land disputes involving the Abubaker family, some dating back decades. The heirs are represented by Advocate Motiea Teele KC, while Resident Magistrate Bokang Makhaketso is presiding. Mr Mokhofu had previously sought a High Court order in 2010 to declare a transfer invalid.
Why it mattersThe heirs of a deceased businessman are in court seeking ownership of commercial property, impacting rental businesses and a butchery.