Lindani Mgube, the brother-in-law of well-known traditional healer Gogo Maweni, was back in court today after his bail application was denied by the Vereeniging Magistrates Court. Mgube, 33, faces a double murder charge following the fatal shootings of two individuals close to Maweni: traditional instructor Faith Mafilika and sangoma initiate Bandile Kubheka. Both victims were closely connected to Maweni, making the case highly significant.
The court had previously denied his bail on the grounds that he failed to provide sufficient reasons to justify his release. Magistrate Rieta Willemse, who oversaw the decision, stated that Mgube’s application lacked tangible evidence or facts supporting his claim for bail. State prosecutor Leanie Reiner informed the court that two key witnesses in the case were living in fear of retribution for their involvement, adding another layer of complexity to the case.
Today, Mgube’s defense underwent a change. His original lawyer, Rotenda Nthangeni, stepped down, and a new legal representative took over. The new attorney informed the court that fresh facts had emerged, which could potentially strengthen the case for bail. As a result, the matter was transferred back to the bail court, where a new hearing will be scheduled. Mgube is expected to return to court on February 25 for further arguments regarding the new facts that have come to light.
Mgube’s arrest on January 31 was carried out by the Gauteng Province Cold Case Investigation Unit. The charges stem from the tragic events in Orange Farm last year, where Mafilika and Kubheka were shot. Mafilika was declared dead at the scene, while Kubheka was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.
In another notable development, controversial blogger Musa Khawula briefly appeared in the Fochville Magistrates Court today to face charges of attempted murder. His case has been postponed to February 21 for representation. Khawula had previously abandoned his bail application and is also scheduled to appear in the Randburg Magistrates Court next week on defamation charges related to Ze Nxumalo.
