Five men arrested in connection with a mass shooting at a birthday party in Kwazakhele earlier in 2023 will remain in custody for at least another six months while the state continues its investigations into the matter.
Appearing briefly in the Gqeberha regional court on Wednesday, Mzwandile Mahambehlala, 33, and Siyabulela Funde, Luyanda April, Luzuko Tsotsi, and Sinaye Tyesi, all 30, smiled and waved at their supporters seated in the public gallery.
Addressing the court, state prosecutor Velile Makasana said it was by agreement with the defence that the matter be postponed to August 30 for further investigations.
The lawyer for all five accused, Danie Gouws, confirmed the arrangement and told the court he had yet to consult with any of the accused on the merits of the case.
However, he did not divulge any reasons for the delay.
Mahambehlala was the first person arrested after police followed up on information received.
He was arrested at a flat in Walmer on March 3 while five other suspects managed to evade arrest at the time.
Mahambehlala’s co-accused were arrested on March 27 in Peelton township, Qonce, after the lead investigator in the matter had received information about their whereabouts.
They face eight counts of murder, three of attempted murder, and charges relating to the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
They are accused of opening fire and shooting dead eight people who were attending a birthday party at a house in Maqanda Street on January 29.
Three other people were wounded in the shooting spree which started at about 5.15pm.
Seven people were fatally wounded while four sustained gunshot wounds and had to be taken to hospital for treatment.
One of the victims died of his injuries while in hospital.
The owner of the house, Andile Sishuba, who was celebrating his birthday, was among the dead, as was his brother, Vusumzi.
HeraldLIVE
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