Twelve suspects appeared in court on Monday in connection with a spate of robberies and murders in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg.
Proceedings were postponed to July 25 for bail investigations which includes verifying their home addresses.
In court were: Dumisani Sithole, 35, Ziphezinhle Mnwango, 21, Sphelele Khanyile, 18, Nkazi Mbatha, 21, Khanyile Nlebia, 25, Lindokuhle Dladla, 27, Goodman Nene, 33, Nkokhelo Chonco, 24, Ntokozo Chonco, 24, Siyabulela Myeni, 24, Thunelihle Sibisi, 18, Andile Hlubi, 29.
The suspects face charges of murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and possession of stolen goods.
Phindi Mjonondwane the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson said a thirteenth suspects was released as he could not be linked to the crimes. She said the state will oppose bail.
On 14 July, six people were shot dead in Alexandra. Among those who were killed in Alex FM music compiler Joshua Mbatha also known as DJ Josh. He was shot during a robbery on his way home with his colleagues. Joshua allegedly recognised one of the suspects and was shot in the chest after being robbed.
Eight suspects were arrested following the murders and four more suspects were caught afterwards. The twelve suspects have been remanded in custody and will be appearing again in court on 25 July.
Lizzy Sithole, the team leader of the Alexandra Gender-Based Violence Brigade, expressed her disappointment at two teenagers being among the 12 suspects who allegedly murdered and robbed people in Alexandra.
“I did not expect to see young boys involved in the killing. These are kids who were supposed to be in school, getting education like their peers who are in university. Now their hands are stained with blood. I am so disappointed in our youth,” said Sithole.
Sithole said she was tired of the justice system which seems to be more in favour of the criminals instead of the victims.
Source: News24, Daily Maverick, Sowetan Live, Times Live, ENCA, image from Times Live: Belinda Pheto