Mkhondo suspect accused of mother and children’s murder remanded in custody

Thembinkosi Africa Shongwe (55) appeared in the Mkhondo Magistrate’s Court on Monday February 27, standing accused of the murder of a mother and her three children.

Shongwe allegedly hacked the mother, Philisiwe Makhubu (44), her 13-year-old twin sons, Andile and Luyanda Nkosi, and her daughter, Siphelele Nkosi (6) using an axe.

They were found dead in the mother’s house in Phola Park, Mkhondo on Friday February 24.

Shongwe abandoned his bail application and has been remanded in custody. This eSwatinian national is charged with four counts of murder and contravention of the Immigration Act.

According to a Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, some family members laid a complaint after they made several attempts to get hold of these victims, but failed.

“The police forced their way into the mother’s house and discovered the body of one of the sons in the kitchen. The mother, the other twin son and the daughter’s were found in another room. An axe believed to have been used to murder them was found in the same room,” Mohlala said.

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He said the victims were last seen alive last Tuesday, February 21.

The acting MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Speedy Mashilo, applauded the police for their swift arrest. “Their efforts will go a long way towards ensuring that justice is served.

“Although we won’t bring the victims back, the families will find closure once those who are responsible are punished.”

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He also decried the growing violent murders that have marred the province in the recent weeks.

“We must all come together to bring an end to violent crime. Our communities should not be living in fear. That is why we urge the police to work with great speed and ensure that those who are responsible are brought to book,” Mashilo said.