Mziyanda Mdlungu, one of the three men accused of the murder of Loyiso Nkohla Mabanda, alleged that he was assaulted by the detective who arrested him. Mdlungu made the claim during his appearance at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Friday 23 August.
He appeared together with co-accused Zukisa Tshabile and Mzubanzi Chulayo. Mdlungu entered the courtroom holding some documents in his hand. Before the court proceedings started, Mdlungu raised his hand up asking to speak. His lawyer then asked him to come closer where he explained that he was moered.
When asked by who, he pointed at the detective who has been investigating their matter. In order to strengethen his point, Mdlungu handed over a J88 to his lawyer saying that is the evidence that he was attacked. His lawyer then discussed the matter with Magistrate Keith le Kuer and agreed that the issue raised by the accused was significant but should be addressed during the trial phase.
The State informed the court that the investigative officer had completed the case, making it ready for trial. However, there is still an outstanding suspect who has yet to be apprehended. The court could not reach a consensus on whether the trial should be held in the regional court or the high court, leading to a postponement of the matter to September 30. On that date, the accused will learn the specific court where their trial will take place.
Nyameka Mabandla who was absent from court today has previously expressed her desire for a swift resolution to the case. “I’m convinced that the state has a solid case against these suspects,” she said. “I’m looking forward to going to trial; I think that will bring so much relief to us as a family.”
As the case progresses, both the defense and the prosecution await further developments to determine the next steps in this high-profile murder case.