Mzubanzi Chulayo, a man accused of killing Loyiso Nkohla Mabandla has been denied bail at Athlone Magistrate’s Court in Cape Town.
Chulayo who is accused number 3 in the murder case applied for a bail on 24 July and the bail judgement was delivered on 01 August. Among other things, he said he wanted to be out so that he can work for his family as he has two children, aged 14 and 19.
The state however argued that Mzubanzi was a danger to the community as he has three previous convictions. Besides previous convictions, he has a pending case of illegal possession of a firearm at the Cofimvaba Magistrate’s Court.
The Magistrate denied Chulayo bail citing among other things that the suspect was a danger to the society, likelihood that he will intimidate witnesses, likelihood that he may not attend the court. The court also added that Chulayo was likely to commit other offences while on bail.
The court also heard that Chulayo was identified by three witnesses that he was the man who went back and shoot Loyiso on the head as the other shooters were leaving. Over 30 cartridges were found at the murder scene. The court said if Chulayo was to be released, witnesses’ lives would be in danger as he committed the crime in front of many people.
“It shows that there is a likelihood that the witnesses are in danger, or anybody who might be a threat, in the mind of the applicant,” the court said.
Nyameka Mabandla Loyiso’s widow said as a family they count the decision by the court as “small victory”. She added that, the state has a strong case against the suspects and she is looking forward to the finalisation of the case.
“I’m looking forward to going to trial, I think that will bring so much relief to us as a family,” said Nyameka.
Chulayo will be back in court on 23 August together with two other accused Zukisa Tshabile and Mziyanda Mdlungu.