Two suspects have so far been arrested for allegedly assaulting the world-renowned Ndebele artist Dr Esther Mahlangu and stealing her firearm and some money. Simon Kgantshi Skosana (37) was remanded in custody until April 20 for formal bail application, while Kwati Masilela (32) is out on R3 000 bail. He will be back in court on May 10.

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The duo were arrested after the police had received a tip-off regarding the stolen firearm. It was discovered in Masilela’s toilet cistern, wrapped in a plastic bag. “Skosana confessed to breaking into Mahlangu’s house, taking the safe containing cash and a firearm,” said a provincial police spokesperson, Brig Selvy Mohlala.

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Mahlangu was robbed and attacked at her residential place in Weltevreden near Siyabuswa on Saturday March 19 around 15:00. The two suspects have been charged with possession of an unlawful firearm and house robbery.