In a surprising turn of events, charges have been dropped against two men, Lwando Abi, 33, and Zenande Paya, 38, who were arrested in connection with the Lusikisiki mass murders ¹. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) withdrew the charges against the two men in court on Monday.
Initially, eight men were charged with the murders of 18 people, including 15 women and three men, who were gunned down on September 28, 2024. The six remaining accused, Mzukisi Ndamase, 46, Siphosoxolo Myekethe, 45, Aphiwe “AP” Ndende, 25, Bonga Hintsa, 31, Mawethu Nomdlembu, 36, and Songezo Vuma, 20, have abandoned their bail application and face a multitude of charges, including:
- 18 counts of murder
- Conspiracy to commit murder
- Kidnapping
- Robbery with aggravating circumstances
- Unlawful possession of prohibited firearms
- Illegal possession of weapons and ammunition
The case has been adjourned to April 14, 2025, and transferred to the Mthatha High Court. The alleged mastermind behind the murders is currently serving a life sentence for murder.
2 comments
f64t9b
5gi9fp