Two suspects remain in custody after Germiston Home Affairs protest

Two women, Malwande Tukula (30) and Mandisa Mboxwana (64), appeared in Germiston Magistrate’s Court on charges of public violence and damaging infrastructure following protests on August 12.

The duo appeared before the court on August 14, marking their first appearance.

The demonstrations resulted in the torching of the Germiston Department of Home Affairs building on President Street, and were linked to court-ordered evictions in the area.

Tukula and Mboxwana were arrested during the chaos and detained at the Germiston SAPS.

ALSO READ: Watch: Chaos in Germiston as Home Affairs building set alight

Court hearing

The GCN arrived in court in the early hours of the morning, but they were later informed that the case would be heard in the afternoon.

Before the court would proceed, the media submitted their applications to record and photograph the suspects appearing in court and the proceedings, citing the public interest attached to the case.

Magistrate Baloyi reviewed and approved the media’s applications with no objections from the defence.
Baloyi underlined the gravity of the charges, stating that the minimum penalty might vary from two to 15 years in prison.

The defence informed the court that Tukula had no prior criminal record, warrant of arrest, or protective order against her. Mboxwana had previously been arrested and paid bail of R500 at the police station, but there’s no record of that arrest.

ALSO READ: Video: Mobile Home Affairs service steps in after protest and blaze in CBD

Next court appearance

The state argued for the accused to be detained at Germiston police station due to ongoing investigations and their willingness to assist.

The state opposed bail and asked for the matter to be postponed to August 19 for a formal bail hearing.

The accused remains in custody at Germiston SAPS and will not be transferred to Sun City Prison.

They will appear in court on Tuesday.