Senior Coca-Cola executive in soup

Accused of assaulting female security guard, sparks outrage

‘MANTŠANG KHUTLISI

MASERU – A senior executive at Coca-Cola Beverages Lesotho is at the centre of a growing scandal and widespread public outrage following allegations that he assaulted a female security guard.

The disturbing incident reportedly happened at an ATM at Modise Complex in Mookoli in the early hours of July 13.

The suspect, Rapelang Maubelle, who currently holds the position of Finance Manager at the Coca- Cola Beverages Lesotho, was apprehended by police shortly after the altercation.

According to multiple eyewitnesses and sources at the scene, the incident began in the morning hours when Maubelle arrived at the ATM, apparently speaking on his mobile phone while attempting to make a transaction.

The female security officer on duty, whose identity remains undisclosed for her safety, approached him politely to remind him of banking rules that prohibit mobile phone use while at the ATM a measure aimed at preventing fraud and maintaining security protocols.

However, what began as a routine safety reminder escalated quickly into a volatile confrontation.

It is alleged Maubelle was merely cautioned not to use his phone when at the ATM.

Eyewitnesses report that Maubelle reacted angrily, allegedly yelling, “Do not mess with me. This is my phone,” before slapping the guard hard across the face.

In a rare act of self-defence, the guard reportedly struck him back in response to the assault.

Security personnel stationed nearby rushed to the scene to defuse the situation.

While they briefly managed to calm Maubelle, tensions flared again when he allegedly went to his vehicle and returned wielding a firearm.

Thankfully, no shots were fired, but the threat of violence prompted the guard to flee into the security office, where she raised an alarm and alerted police.

Law enforcement officers from the Lesotho Mounted Police Service arrived shortly thereafter and promptly arrested Maubelle.

Handcuffed at the scene Maubelle was to police custody for several hours before being released pending further investigation.

This troubling episode has raised serious questions about Maubelle’s professional conduct, particularly given his leadership position at Coca-Cola Beverages Lesotho.

Notably, sources close to the matter have revealed that Maubelle has a background in the security industry himself, making his alleged actions even more concerning given his familiarity with workplace protocols and discipline.

In a brief interview, Mapaballo Seitlheko, an Industrial Relations Officer at Security Unlimited Company, the employer of the assaulted guard condemned the attack and called for greater respect and protection for security workers.

“We are deeply saddened by this incident, security guards are often undermined and disrespected, yet they play a crucial role in ensuring public safety. No one should fear being insulted or physically assaulted while simply doing their job,” Seitlheko stated.

Furthermore, in a brief interview with the publication, Kotsoane Ramakau of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service confirmed the existence of the case, stating that there is indeed such case and that the victim has officially opened a case against Maubelle.

He further stated that once investigations are complete, Maubelle will be brought before the court to answer for his alleged actions.

Despite multiple efforts by the publication to obtain a response from Coca-Cola, the company had not issued any official statement or comment regarding the matter at the time of going for print last night.

This case not only highlights the need for accountability among those in powerful positions but also underscores the importance of dignity and safety for all workers, regardless of their job title or social status.