LUSIKISIKI MASS MURDERS: ACCUSED MAKES FIRST COURT APPEARANCE

Siphosoxolo Myekethe, 45, appeared in the Lusikisiki Magistrates’ Court today, facing 18 charges of murder and one count of possession of an unlicensed firearm, an AK47 assault rifle. The accused was arrested on October 7, 2024, at his home in Mthimde Location, Mamfengwini Area, Lusikisiki district.

The arrest follows a devastating shooting incident on September 28, 2024, at two neighboring homesteads in Ngobozana Village, near Lusikisiki. Tragically, 18 people lost their lives, and five others were injured.

Myekethe opted for representation by a legal aid attorney and expressed intention to apply for bail during his brief court appearance. However, the prosecution plans to oppose bail due to Myekethe’s two previous convictions for escaping from legal custody and murder, for which he is currently out on parole.

The case has been postponed to October 15, 2024, for further criminal profiling, a report from the Correctional Services Department regarding his parole status, and a possible bail application.

This shocking crime has sent shockwaves through the community, and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) will closely monitor the proceedings. Luxolo Tyali, NPA Regional Spokesperson for the Eastern Cape Division, issued the press release announcing Myekethe’s court appearance.