Facebook murder-accused in court

Angry residents who wanted to force their way into the Qumbu Magistrate’s Court, where a Facebook serial rape and murder accused was appearing, went on a rampage yesterday damaging cars and property.

The mob wanted to get a glimpse of the 28-year-old man accused of using the social media site to lure his victims before raping and killing them.

But the beefed-up security contingent managed to prevent the charging residents from gaining entry into the courtyard.

A few community and municipal leaders were allowed inside.

However, this infuriated the protesting villagers, who burnt tyres and damaged parts of the intercom system and main gate.

Mhlontlo council speaker Mbulelo Jara and National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesman Luxolo Tyali’s said cars were damaged by the protesters.

Nobody was injured in the process and no arrests were made.

Inside the court the suspect appeared relaxed but he hardly made contact with the people in the public gallery.

The accused – who is the son of a prominent priest who died last month – abandoned his bail application in fear for his life.

According to the charge sheet, the accused did not only rape and kill his victims, but stole their valuables too.

All three murder victims have now been identified.

The matter was postponed to February 26 for further investigation. —

lulamilef@dispatch.co.za