A Molepolole man employed as a Safety Specialist at Air Botswana has been hauled before the courts after a viral social media video allegedly showed him unleashing a barrage of insults at a police officer before taking the matter online.
Ofence Odutese Rachaba appeared before the Village Magistrate Court on Monday facing two serious charges — using insulting language and offensive electronic communication. Police say Rachaba was arrested on April 24 by officers from Gaborone West Police after the explosive video spread rapidly across social media platforms, triggering public outrage and intense debate. According to the prosecution, the incident dates back to April 7 at Block 5 Police Post in Gaborone, where Rachaba allegedly directed abusive and insulting language at a police officer “without any lawful excuse.”
But the confrontation did not end there.
Court papers further allege that Rachaba “willfully, maliciously and repeatedly used offensive electronic communication” aimed at the same officer, before escalating the matter online on April 23.Police say the same content was then posted on social media, where it quickly went viral, drawing thousands of views and reactions.
Rachaba was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation, with a report to be submitted before court. He was also instructed to attend all future court appearances and warned not to commit any further offences, particularly those involving insulting language or offensive electronic communication.
The dramatic case was heard before Principal Magistrate Her Worship Desmond Rakodi, who granted the accused bail under strict conditions.
Rachaba was ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation, with a report to be submitted before court. He was also instructed to attend all future court appearances and warned not to commit any further offences, particularly those involving insulting language or offensive electronic communication.
The matter has been postponed to May 28 for further proceedings.
The case has ignited fresh public debate over the growing misuse of social media platforms and the legal consequences of online conduct
Rachaba’s position at national carrier Air Botswana is also likely to attract attention, given the sensitivity attached to professionals in safety-critical roles becoming embroiled in criminal proceedings.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Near Bagali confirmed the developments in a media release issued Monday.
