By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The trial of six men linked to the Lusikisiki massacre, in which 18 people died last September, has been postponed.
The accused — Mzukisi Ndamase (46), Siphosoxolo Myekethe (45), Aphiwe “AP” Ndende (25), Bonga Hintsa (31), Mawethu Nomdlembu (36), and Songezo Vuma (20) — made their first appearance in the High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, Mthatha, on Monday.
The accused, who have all abandoned bail, face charges of conspiracy to commit murder, 18 charges of murder, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of prohibited firearms, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The charges relate to a mass shooting on 28 September 2024, when gunmen opened fire at two neighbouring homes in Ngobozana Village, near Lusikisiki, killing 18 people.
Their matter was transferred from the Lusikisiki High Court and has been postponed to 16 May 2025 for the defence to confirm whether they are ready to proceed with the trial.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Luxolo Tyali said the state was ready to proceed with the trial of Mzukisi Ndamase, 46, Siphosoxolo Myekethe, 45, Aphiwe “AP’ Ndende, 25, Bonga Hintsa, 31, Mawethu Nomdlembu, 36, and Songezo Vuma, 20.
“They are charged with the shooting that occurred on September 28 2024 at two neighbouring homesteads in Ngobozana village near Lusikisiki, where 18 people were killed.” Tyali said.
The accused have also been linked to the murder of politician Mncedi Gijana, who was shot and killed in KwaBhaca on 19 August 2024.