More arrests to follow after the killing of Megan Griesel in Lydenburg, according to police
Police commended community members for providing intelligence about the location of the two men that led to the arrests.
Two men (27) appeared in the Lydenburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, November 7 on charges of murder, attempted murder, armed business robberies and the contravention of the Explosives Act.
The Mpumalanga SAPS described these arrests as a breakthrough in the investigation into the murder of Megan Griesel (20).
“One suspect was arrested near Masoyi, outside White River, on November 1, and the other in KaNyamazane on November 2. One was reportedly found in possession of a firearm and ammunition during his arrest,” said Colonel Donald Mdhluli, a provincial police spokesperson.
The accused arrested near Masoyi appeared in the Lydenburg Magistrate’s Court on November 3 and the accused arrested in KaNyamazane appeared in the KaBokweni Court on November 3.
Both were held in police custody in Lydenburg till their appearance on November 7.
After Griesel’s killing, the police launched a manhunt across the province to apprehend the suspects. Mdhluli said the police are positive that more arrests will follow.
“The team is working around a clock to ensure that the remaining suspects are swiftly brought to book,” said Mdluli.
Griesel was killed on October 21 between 00:39 and 00:45 during a robbery at the traffic circle between the Lydenburg Convenience Engen Garage and the Quest Garage. Both garages are close to The Heads Shopping Complex.
Mdhluli said security footage showed about 10 suspects carrying pistols and rifles, and reportedly held the staff at gunpoint. The suspects detonated explosives to gain access to the drop safes of both garages and took an undisclosed amount of cash, as well as cigarettes.
According to the police, the robbers allegedly mistook the Toyota Hilux Griesel was driving for a security vehicle and started shooting at it. Twenty-seven bullet holes in the Hilux were counted.
A group of about 30 Lydenburg residents attended the bail application on Tuesday to support the family and express their shock that such a crime could have been committed in the town.
“We hope to see more supporters against the suspects receiving bail on November 14. We want to show the community and the family that we are all heartbroken about this tragic loss. It could have been any of our children,” said Jacques van Baalen, a Lydenburg resident.
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A business owner, Amanda le Roux, said it is heartbreaking that an innocent young woman lost her life on her way home. “We are in shock about how these events occurred. It is supposed to be a safe area. There is no other route she could have taken to enter her complex. We will be back next week to show support for the family,” she said.
Pompies Ledwaba, the leader of the Mashishing Civic Coalition, said there is so much sorrow and anger in the community after the death of the innocent and defenceless Megan.
“Due to the sensitivity and delicacy of this case, the identities of the suspects are being withheld to prevent a situation that may jeopardise the investigation. The police are working around the clock to ensure that the remaining suspects are arrested,” said Mdhluli.
The case was postponed until November 14.
