The man charged with the murder of 18 people has abandoned his bail application in the Lusikisiki Magistrates’ Court today. Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), who was out on parole for murder when he was arrested for the recent massacre, made his first appearance a week ago. He is facing 18 charges of murder and one count of possession of an unlicensed firearm, an AK47 assault rifle. The accused was arrested on 07 October 2024 at his home in Mthimde Location, Mamfengwini Area in the district of Lusikisiki. His arrest comes after the shooting that occurred on 28 September 2024, at two neighbouring homesteads in Ngobozana Village near the town of Lusikisiki. 18 people were killed and 5 others were injured.
During his brief appearance, he informed the court that he would not be applying for bail, which the prosecution had already indicated it would be opposing. Myekethe has two previous convictions for escaping from lawful custody and murder. The case has been remanded to 26 November 2024, for further investigations as there are outstanding suspects on the matter.
