MASS MURDER TRIAL SET FOR FEBRUARY
Lusikisiki – Seven suspects accused of murdering 18 people in a brutal attack on two neighbouring homesteads in Ngobozana near Lusikisiki will spend Christmas behind bars.
The suspects, Mzukisi Ndamase (46), Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), Aphiwe “AP” Ndende (25), Lwando Antony Abi (33), Bonga Hintsa (31), Zenande Paya (38), and Mawethu Nomdlembu (36), face 19 counts of murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, and ammunition.
The trial is set to begin on February 17 and is expected to last two weeks. The state has confirmed that it is ready to proceed with the trial as investigations have been finalized.
Ndamase, who is alleged to have orchestrated the massacre, is currently serving a life sentence and an additional 15-year sentence for murder and robbery. He was apprehended from inside a correctional services facility.
The other suspects were arrested in various locations, including Flagstaff, Port Shepstone, East London, and Lusikisiki. All suspects have abandoned their bail applications.
The prosecution has finalized the defense attorneys for six of the accused and is transferring the matter from the district court to the regional court. Ndamase, who has elected to conduct his own defense, is set to return to court on December 12 to confirm his readiness for the trial.