Investigating Officer and Masakala residents urges court to deny bail for murder suspect with alleged flight risk

In the ongoing murder case of Sikhumbuzo Makopo, the investigating officer, Sgt Mzwanele Mncedane,and the residents of Masakala made a compelling plea to the court on Thursday, urging against granting bail to the accused, Lesapho Mtebang. Mtebang faces charges of kidnapping and killing Makopo in February of this year.
Sgt Mncedane presented damning evidence suggesting Mtebang’s potential flight risk, highlighting his possession of an international passport. According to Mncedane, Mtebang has made frequent trips to Lesotho between September of the previous year and February of this year, all of which were unauthorized entries. Investigations revealed discrepancies in Mtebang’s passport stamps, indicating illegal border crossings.
Furthermore, Sgt Mncedane emphasized the gravity of the case, noting that Mtebang poses a threat to witnesses, given their known associations with the accused. Concerns were also raised about Mtebang’s safety, as the enraged community has reportedly burnt down his residence, fearing retaliation from him.
Meanwhile, residents of Masakala Location, where both Mtebang and Makopo resided, have adamantly opposed Mtebang’s bail, echoing the sentiments of the state. They argue that granting bail would not only disrupt community peace but also endanger the victim’s family and potentially compromise the integrity of the case.
Virginia Masopi, representing the community, testified in court, reinforcing their demand to deny bail for Mtebang. Masopi emphasized the community’s belief that Masakala is safer with Mtebang behind bars, pointing to a series of abductions and deaths in the area.
Mtebang, during his bail hearing on April 18, vehemently pleaded not guilty, asserting his innocence and highlighting his responsibilities as a provider for his children. He maintained that he had a cordial relationship with the deceased, refuting any allegations linking him to the crime.
Sikhumbuzo Makopo was reported missing on February 12, 2024, sparking an intensive search operation involving both the community and law enforcement. His body was eventually discovered buried near Zwelitsha Location on February 21, 2024.
The court, now armed with the investigating officer’s testimony, has postponed the case to June 7 for the magistrate’s decision. In the interim, Mtebang remains in custody as the legal proceedings unfold.
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