Pixaby
The state is ready for trial in the case against six men accused of murdering 18 people in Lusikisiki in September last year.
The accused — Mzukisi Ndamase (46), Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), Aphiwe "AP" Ndende (25), Bonga Hintsa (31), Mawethu Nomdlembu (36), and Songezo Vuma (20), made their first appearance in the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, Mthatha, on Monday.
Their matter was transferred from the Lusikisiki Regional Court and postponed to 16 May 2025 so that the defence can confirm whether they are ready to proceed with the trial.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Luxolo Tyali, the six men face a string of serious charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, 18 counts of murder, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, and illegal possession of weapons and ammunition.
The charges relate to a mass shooting on 28 September 2024, when gunmen opened fire at two neighbouring homes in Ngobozana Village, near Lusikisiki, killing 18 people.
The accused have also been linked to the murder of politician Mncedi Gijana, who was shot and killed in KwaBhaca on 19 August 2024.
All six men remain in custody after abandoning their bail applications.
