Ohrigstad suspect in Claassen murders abandons bail application
An alleged ex-employee recently made his first court appearance for the Ohrigstad farm murders at the Echo Caves.
Christopher Bongani Mgiba (30) appeared in the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on Thursday June 15, facing charges of murder, arson and robbery with aggravating circumstances. He abandoned his bail application when he appeared in court.
The Limpopo SAPS had tracked Mgiba down in Tembisa, Gauteng, on Wednesday June 14. He is linked to the murders of Hennie (77) and Anneke (76) Claassen on Saturday June 3.
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A private investigation company based in Thabazimbi, Bosveld Misdaadondersoeke, was an integral part of the investigation and arrest. According to the company, the suspect was known to the Claassens as he had been a previous employee.
The Claassens were killed in their respective houses on the farm Klipfonteinhoek, outside Ohrigstad, between 13:00 and 14:00. The farm is also home to a well-known tourism destination, the Echo Caves.
Their houses were set alight with the victims still inside, they were burnt beyond recognition.
“The case has been postponed until Monday August 14 for further investigation, and the accused will remain in custody.” said Tshegofatso Mabanna, the Limpopo National Prosecuting Authority’s spokesperson.
“The police believe more arrests are to follow. This is a priority investigation for the police,” said Lieutenant Colonole Malesela Ledwaba, the Limpopo SAPS’s spokesperson.
