THE three men accused of killing and dismembering Manguzi woman Thandazile Mpunzi (20) earlier this month, abandoned their bail application at Manguzi Magistrate’s Court yesterday and were remanded in custody.
Manguzi came to a standstill on Tuesday morning as hundreds of community members and some government officials picketed outside the court in a peaceful protest, opposing the suspects’ bail.
In support of the protest, KZN MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Willies Mchunu said, ‘We need to register our strong protest and anger by demanding that rape and murder suspects should not be given bail.
‘We welcome the suspects’ decision because we, as the department, are of the view that they should remain in custody for their alleged roles in such a dastardly crime against an innocent woman during Women’s Month, a time when we should be rejoicing and honouring women,’ said Ismail Nxumalo, Senior Manager of the uMkhanyakude and Zululand districts in the Department of Community Safety and Liaison.
The decision was also welcomed by the packed courtroom, including Mpunzi’s family, who said the suspects belonged in custody.
Bhekukufa Gumede, Lindokuhle Khumalo and Mandla Mabuza were arrested following a community tip-off and led police officers to the shallow grave in which Mpunzi’s dismembered body had been buried.
The case was postponed to 13 October while police investigations continue.
