In June Qumbu magistrate Vuyisa Dyomfana found that to release the four Mbentsa villagers — sub-headman Mthuthuzeli Sydwell Thungata, 64, retired Mthatha prison assistant director Makhosoxolo Noranga, 61, his son Nyameko Noranga, 33 and Mkhukhwini Colomas Dlepu, 67 — would disturb public peace.
A fifth accused, Gugulethu Goodman Ndzuzo, 57, who the state claims was found in possession of the murder weapon, abandoned his bail bid.
They face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
They were arrested on May 20 after the bodies of two Grade 12 pupils, Mmiselo Diya, 22, and Lonwabo Welcome Dakana, 20, as well as Sakhumzi Bilikwana, 25, and Mabhuti Bhala, 31, were discovered in a field at Mbentsa village.
Bail on appeal for 5 accused of killing Qumbu youths
Image: FILE
Five Qumbu men accused of killing four youths they suspected of stock theft have been granted bail by the Mthatha high court.
Their lawyer, Sithembele Tshitshi, appealed to the high court after it was refused in the Qumbu magistrate's court two months ago.
Eastern Cape the stock theft capital of SA
In June Qumbu magistrate Vuyisa Dyomfana found that to release the four Mbentsa villagers — sub-headman Mthuthuzeli Sydwell Thungata, 64, retired Mthatha prison assistant director Makhosoxolo Noranga, 61, his son Nyameko Noranga, 33 and Mkhukhwini Colomas Dlepu, 67 — would disturb public peace.
A fifth accused, Gugulethu Goodman Ndzuzo, 57, who the state claims was found in possession of the murder weapon, abandoned his bail bid.
They face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
They were arrested on May 20 after the bodies of two Grade 12 pupils, Mmiselo Diya, 22, and Lonwabo Welcome Dakana, 20, as well as Sakhumzi Bilikwana, 25, and Mabhuti Bhala, 31, were discovered in a field at Mbentsa village.
EC police arrest suspected stock thieves who burnt down victims homes
Dyomfana said all witnesses believed there would be an outcry from the public and even violence if the accused were released on bail.
Tshitshi argued that all the accused were over 60 and had chronic ailments, making them vulnerable to Covid-19 in the crowded prison.
Acting Judge Buyiselo Somacala last week granted the accused R5,000 bail each.
They are ordered not leave the district of Qumbu without notifying the Qumbu police station 14 days before they leave.
NPA regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said that they were aware of the high court ruling. — DispatchLIVE
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