The trial of seven men accused of orchestrating the brutal killings of 18 family members in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, is set to begin in the Lusikisiki Regional Court in February 2025. The men face a staggering 19 charges of murder, as well as possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The murders, which took place in September 2023, shocked the community, leaving authorities grappling with the scale of the violence. The accused are believed to have carried out the murders as part of a coordinated attack, and the trial is expected to shed light on the horrifying details of the crime.
The accused men, Mzukisi Ndamase (46), Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), Aphiwe “AP” Ndende (25), Lwando Antony Abi (33), Bonga Hintsa (31), Zenande Paya (38), and Mawethu Nomdlembu (36), will stand trial on multiple charges, including 19 counts of murder. The 19th charge pertains to a separate incident in KwaBhaca, which has since been linked to the same group of suspects. According to NPA Regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali, the prosecution has completed its investigations, and all evidence is now ready for the court proceedings, which will commence on 17 February 2025 and run through to 28 February.
One of the key figures in the case is Mzukisi Ndamase, who is believed to have masterminded the murders while serving a sentence for a previous murder conviction. Authorities allege that Ndamase orchestrated the killings from prison, using his influence to recruit others to carry out the violent attacks. In a surprising turn, Ndamase has elected to represent himself in court, a decision that will undoubtedly add a layer of complexity to the trial. His next court appearance is scheduled for 12 December 2024, when he will confirm whether he has reviewed the docket contents and is prepared to proceed with his defense at the trial’s scheduled start.
The accused men have all abandoned their bail applications, a move that suggests they are preparing for a lengthy legal battle. The case has garnered significant attention due to the horrific nature of the killings and the involvement of such a large group of suspects. As the trial draws near, the community and legal observers alike are awaiting the unfolding of what promises to be one of the most high-profile murder trials in the region’s recent history. With the state prepared to move forward, the upcoming trial will focus on establishing the details of the murders and the extent of each defendant’s involvement.
This case highlights not only the tragic loss of life but also the disturbing trends of organized violence in South Africa. The prosecution’s readiness to proceed with the trial reflects a determined effort to bring justice to the victims and their families, who are still grappling with the aftermath of this brutal crime. As the trial unfolds in February 2025, the Lusikisiki Regional Court will become the focal point of a case that has sent shockwaves through the Eastern Cape and beyond.
