THREE MEN ACCUSED OF KILLING DITEBOGO PHAHLANE ABANDON BAIL APPLICATION ONCE AGAIN
Pretoria, South Africa – Three men from Soshanguve South, Elia Moeko (36), Ali Sithole (30), and Nido Gumbe (29), have abandoned their bail application yet again during their appearance at the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court today. During their previous court appearance on 27 August 2024, the accused indicated their intention to bring forth a bail application after previously abandoning their bail request on 28 May 2024. All three men face serious charges of murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. Additionally, Gumbe, a Mozambican national, is facing a charge of being illegal status in the country.
On 10 May 2024, it is alleged that the trio shot and killed 5-year-old Ditebogo Phalane during an armed robbery targeting his father, Tebogo Phalane, when they were robbing him of his vehicle. Following an extensive investigation by the Directorate of Priority Crime Detection, led by Major General Khumalo, the three suspects were apprehended at the Pretoria Moot Police Station on 23 May 2024, while they were in custody for unrelated charges.
Moeko also abandoned his bail application today for a separate matter at the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court, where he faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of unlicensed ammunition. Additionally, Sithole and Gumbe have pending charges at the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court for possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of ammunition. Sithole is also implicated in another pending case at the Ga-Rankuwa Magistrate’s Court for possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, attempted murder, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The court has postponed the matter until 04 December 2024, for further investigations and a decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding the potential consolidation of all cases against the accused. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) remains committed to pursuing justice in this case and emphasises the serious nature of the crimes involved. The organisation will continue to seek accountability for those responsible for violent acts against members of the community.
