Nelspruit: The three suspects, Ntokozo Sithole (27), Siyabonga Mkhatshwa (29) and Donald Mhlanga (27) appeared at the Barberton Magistrates’ Court yesterday, Tuesday 28 February 2023 where they were all remanded in custody. The court appearance of the three follows their arrest by members from Barberton SAPS in connection with the murder of Sanele Themba (30).
According to the information, on Sunday 26 February 2023, police were called to attend an absurd and sad scene of a man who had succumbed from unnatural causes at the Barberton General Hospital.
Upon arrival police discovered that the victim had sustained some stab wounds on the upper body. A murder case was then opened and a probe immediately began whereby investigations revealed that he was stabbed at a certain party in Barberton. Thereafter in an attempt to save his life, the man was taken to hospital by his fellows on the same day around 04:30 but he unfortunately died few moments later.
The investigation further led the astute members to the three suspects who were cornered and arrested at their respective residential places on the same day, 26 February 2023 hence the court appearance. The three will appear again on Thursday, 02 February 2023 for a formal bail application.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi has condemned the murder incident whilst applauding members for swiftly arresting the suspects.
Source: South African Police Service