The grieving families of three women allegedly killed by a local farmer in Dalton say they have been left in the dark about the progress of the case, months after the tragic incident.
Asanda Mbonambi and Thandolwenkosi Ngcobo, both 24, and 30-year-old Nobuhle Mgwaba were walking home from an agricultural training program in February when they were struck by a vehicle, dragged for 10 meters, and killed. The driver, Martin Kassier, a Dalton farmer, was arrested and charged with three counts of culpable homicide and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Families Left Without Answers
Relatives of the victims say they have received little communication from authorities since Kassier was released on R10,000 bail.
“We were not even informed when he was granted bail,” said a family member. “Every time we go to the police station, we’re told we’re not needed yet. We just want to know what’s happening with the case.”
Nobuhle Mgwaba’s uncle recounted the harrowing scene he encountered after the crash: “When I arrived, I saw the car with bottles of alcohol inside. The police told us the driver was way over the legal limit.”
Children Left Without Mothers
The tragedy has left behind two young children—Mbonambi’s three-year-old son, now being cared for by elderly pensioners, and Ngcobo’s one-year-old daughter, being raised by her grandmother.
“The perpetrator must be arrested and sentenced to jail for life,” said a family member. “But while he’s out, he should at least support the children who no longer have mothers.”
Police Under Scrutiny
Frustrated by the lack of updates, the families, accompanied by a political party, confronted the Dalton police station commander this week. They were reportedly told they would only be informed of court dates once the trial begins—an explanation that has raised concerns about transparency.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda declined to comment, citing the sub judice nature of the case, only confirming that Kassier was out on bail and that the matter would return to court next month.
Calls for Justice
Community members and the victims’ families are demanding accountability, both from the accused and the justice system.
“We just want justice for our loved ones,” said a relative. “We need to know why we’re being kept in the dark.”
As the case continues, the families remain desperate for answers—and for the chance to see justice served for the three young women whose lives were cut short.
