More suspects could be arrested for TUT lecturer's murder, court hears
The investigating officer in the murder of Tshwane University of Technology lecturer Sifundo Madasi says more suspects could be arrested in connection with the attack.
On Monday, nine accused lined up in the Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court for a bail hearing.
They allegedly assaulted and killed the part-time lecturer in Soshanguve last month, in a vigilante attack after he was accused of raping two children.
The accused are six men: Koketso Mlambo, Thapelo Mothemane, Solomon Maunatlala, Kgolofelo Phasha, Kabelo Mothiba, Koketso Masuku:, and three women; Lerato Matlala, Marry Mogale, and Maggy Phasha, who are all facing charges of murder with common purpose.
They have all denied involvement and said they intend to plead not guilty.
During their bail affidavits, the accused told the court that they were bystanders when the deceased was allegedly assaulted by a mob.
The court heard that the deceased was hit with a sjambok, sticks, stones and bricks in Block L in Soshanguve on 25 February.
A video of a motionless body, purportedly that of the deceased lecturer, lying in the middle of the road at night, was shared on social media.
State Prosecutor Thandi Nduli said the state would oppose bail, with Investigating Officer Sergeant Xolani Hasane taking the stand.
The state believes that if the accused are granted bail, they may interfere with investigations or intimidate witnesses.
He said they are working to trace the outstanding suspects, as their whereabouts could not be established.
During cross-examination, the defence questioned whether Hasane could positively identify individuals involved in the attack, arguing that the deceased was assaulted by a large crowd, which included students from the university.
The defence also emphasised that the witness, who feared for their safety, did not receive direct threats from accused number one as alleged.
The matter has been postponed to Wednesday, 11 March, for the continuation of the bail hearing.
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