Hardly a day after five members of the Gumede family were hacked to death with an axe in Mgodini, Edenadale, police took in two persons for questioning and after thorough investigations, the two suspects were formally charged.
Philani Shezi, 39, and Siphesihle Xulu, 24, appeared before the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court today (Monday), each facing five counts of murder and another one of robbery with aggravating circumstances. Xulu abandoned his bail application whereas Shezi will know his fate on 7 February 2024 when he will make a formal bail application.
The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has applauded the investigating team for a swift breakthrough and has ordered that intensive investigations must still be conducted to ensure that the suspects receive the sentence befitting their heinous act. “The swift arrest of the suspects is commendable we applaud the investigating team for the quick turnaround time in making this notable progress. No stone must be left unturned in the quest for justice and if there other suspects connected to the matter we shall ensure that they also face the mighty arm of the law”, said Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi.
