One of the accused in a major Limpopo criminal case involving allegations of murder, insurance fraud and money laundering has died.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that William Shokane, one of the 10 accused in the matter, lost his life while the case was before the Polokwane High Court on Monday.

Shokane was among the accused facing 111 charges, including murder, fraud, money laundering, receiving proceeds of unlawful activities and defeating the ends of justice.

According to the State, the accused allegedly targeted vulnerable victims between 2013 and 2024, fraudulently taking out life, funeral and accidental insurance policies in their names.

The State alleges that insurance claims were subsequently lodged, with payouts amounting to approximately R21 million, including claims that were ultimately repudiated.

The case, known as State versus Rachel Shokane Kutumela and nine others, was postponed to 29 October 2026.

The remaining accused are expected to return to court on that date, while arrangements are also being made to secure judicare for the matter.