Accused in Modikwa bus attack appear before Magistrate’s Court
PRAKTISEER - The four accused arrested for the murder of six mine workers appeared before the Praktiseer's Magistrate Court last Friday.
The accused allegedly torched the bus that was ferrying workers to Modikwa Platinum Mine.
Twenty-eight miners were injured. Seven of them are still recovering in Polokwane Mediclinic.
Sipho Khumalo (28) from Driekop, Thabo Mokgala (33) from Sehlaku, Aubrey Tjie (35) from Driekop and Philimon Makwana (34) from Leolo Village were arrested on April 4.
Another suspect, Kgaogelo Moime, appeared in the Mecklenburg’s Magistrate Court on April 5. The five accused are charged with of six counts of murder,
10 counts of attempted murder and one of malicious damage to property.
Family members, as well as friends and colleagues of the victims, pleaded with the magistrate, Bassie Molebatse, to not give the suspects bail.
“They deserve to rot in jail. They are heartless. We believe our justice system will ensure these guys taste the wrath of the law,” said Mahlatse Maroga, a community member.
The five accused were remanded in custody and appeared in Mecklenburg Magistrate’s Court for a formal bail application yesterday.
