Families seek closure as double murder accused returns to Germiston court

Nkosinathi Mabasa appeared in the Germiston Regional Court on May 7 in connection with double murder charges stemming from a horrific incident that took place in Primrose in October.

The charred bodies of two individuals, allegedly killed by the accused, were discovered in a burned-out automobile near Wannenburg Clinic on October 2.

Mabasa’s arrest and upcoming court hearing are crucial steps in the pursuit of justice, as the families of the victims are still seeking it.

ALSO READ: Primrose double murder case against Nkosinathi Mabasa moves to April 14

The families are still reeling from the tragic events.

One of the deceased, Kagiso, was described as a lively and fun-loving person by his sister, Queen Machimana.

The memories of him highlight the impact of his passing on those who knew him.

Mabasa is accused of setting a sedan on fire with two men inside in May, and the case will be heard by the Germiston Regional Court.

He is scheduled to make his second appearance at the same court on May 28 after making his first appearance of the month on Wednesday.

His court hearing follows his appearance on April 14, when the case was again postponed due to unfinished investigations.

At his ninth court appearance, state materials will be handed over to his defence for review. Since the defence must examine the files and meet with its client, the case will undergo another postponement.

Following the murder that left the community shaken, Mabasa, who allegedly sustained burn wounds while setting the bodies alight, was swiftly arrested by the police at Bertha Gxowa Hospital while seeking medical care.
As the court proceedings continue, the families are still grappling with their loss and seeking justice.

Speaking to Machimana, the sister of the deceased, justice was the central theme of the conversation.

She described her brother as a busy person who enjoyed having fun and living life.

“We were shocked to receive the news of his passing and how he died,” said Machimana.

ALSO READ: Four nabbed for murder of police officer

She described her brother as a loving, caring, and gentle person who was dedicated to his studies and wanted a better life for his family.

As a father of two, he worked as a Bolt driver to provide for his loved ones.

She shared that Kagiso had studied at Boston College and had started working for Bolt shortly before his death.

“The car he was driving for Bolt was the same one that was set ablaze,” said Machimana.

Machimana mentioned that Kagiso had developed a close bond with one of his regular passengers, who would often request rides.

ALSO READ: Double murder case against Nkosinathi Mabasa moved to March 7 for further investigations

“On the day of the incident, Kagiso was headed to Primrose, possibly to drop off the passenger, who had family ties in the Makause informal settlement,” said Machimana.

She recounted how she received the devastating news of her brother’s death. Her mother called and asked her to come home after work without revealing the news.

“When I arrived home, there was no one. Later, my mother arrived visibly shaken, dropping a bowl at the gate – signalling a loss of life in the family,” said Machimana.

Machimana broke down upon hearing the news, but initially held onto hope that Kagiso might still be alive due to reports of a man fleeing the scene after catching fire.

“The next day, I struggled to focus at work and had to take a half-day off. We appreciate the support shown by the owner of the Bolt car. He was very supportive throughout,” said Machimana.

Funeral

Machimana remembered her brother Kagiso as a joyful person who brought laughter to those around him.

Growing up in Orange Farm, he played a significant role in her life, especially since they did not have a father figure at home.

“Kagiso was known for his kindness, often picking up hitchhikers and driving them to school. One woman shared a heartfelt story about how he’d take her to visit her son’s grave without charging her,” said Machimana.

“At his funeral, which was held at Orange Farm, many people celebrated his life. The family were able to identify him by the jewellery he wore, despite the tragic circumstances.

“The community’s outpouring of love and support was evident, with people travelling from Germiston to pay their respects.

“The local councillor attended the funeral, and social media was filled with messages of condolence, showing how Kagiso’s life had touched many,” said Machimana.

Children

Machimana described her brother as a family-oriented man and a devoted father of two young boys.

“His girlfriend had just given birth to a baby boy a couple of months before he passed away. His eldest son recently turned four in March.

“Despite not being married, he prioritised his children and proudly shared photos of them on social media,” said Machimana.

She highlighted Kagiso’s close relationship with their family, particularly their uncle and grandmother, with whom they grew up.

She recalled how Kagiso would drive slowly through their neighbourhood in Orange Farm, greeting everyone along the way.

“I’d like him to be remembered as a funny and smiley person, but most of all, as a dreamer,” said Machimana.

“I recall how Kagiso would point out a house in a magazine and imagine building a similar one, showcasing his ambition and drive.

“His determination to pursue job opportunities, even following up on applications, demonstrated his commitment to providing for his family,” said Machimana.

Machimana expressed her sadness that the true motive behind her brother’s death might remain unknown, known only to the perpetrator.

She believes her brother’s death was likely a case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Machimana hopes that the suspect in custody will not be granted bail, as she feels that would bring some form of justice to the families.

ALSO READ: Double murder case against Nkosinathi Mabasa moved to March 7 for further investigations

“We believe the perpetrator deserves a life sentence, given the suffering he has caused to the two families,” said Machimana.

“The shared pain of not being able to hold traditional customs, such as a night vigil, due to the circumstances of my brother’s death, was hurtful.”

“Even on the day of the funeral, the procession to the cemetery was rushed, which was heartbreaking for the family.

“Kagiso was just 26 years old, turning 27 this year in June, when he passed away,” said Machimana.

The case is anticipated to move forward without any hiccups, given that all investigations, including the filing of an incident photo album and other police data, are complete.