Dullstroom murder: Angler’s sons want accused to stay behind bars
The late John Wickham’s family is trying to keep the illegal immigrants suspected of his murder behind bars by asking the public to sign a petition.
The sons of late Protea bass angler John Wickham have launched a petition demanding that bail be denied to the three men accused of his murder. They will again appear in the Dullstroom Magistrate’s Court for a formal bail application on February 19.
Wickham was brutally shot and killed while protecting his wife Magda from two armed robbers who broke into their luxury Dullstroom guesthouse on November 26.
The petition was started on January 23, with the bail application originally set for January 26. The matter was, however, remanded to February 19 and the family are determined to reach their goal of obtaining 5 000 signatures by then.
The petition already has 2 790 signatures.
According to police, all three accused are in the country illegally.
According to Mpumalanga SAPS spokesman Colonel Donald Mdluli, a provincial task team followed information which led to the arrest of James Cumiao (38) at Marikana on November 30.
He was charged with contravention of the Immigration Act. However, after further investigation, he was charged with murder and robbery on January 12.
Information then surfaced about another possible suspect in possession of an unlicensed firearm in Cullinan.
On January 23, the investigation led investigators to the front door of Gil Ernesto Manave (38), who was charged with murder alongside Cumiao.
An unlicensed firearm was found during the search of the property and has been sent for ballistic analysis.
A 28-year-old female was also apprehended and charged with contravening immigration laws during Manave’s arrest.
Her possible involvement with the planning and execution of the murder is still under investigation.
Wickham’s sons Tristan and Nathan followed in their dad’s footsteps to obtain their national colours in bass angling.
Both Tristan and Nathan were also selected for the Protea Under 25 team for 2024, with Tristan being crowned Protea National Champion for 2024 at a bittersweet awards ceremony, following the South African Bass Angling Association U25 Nationals at Witbank Dam on January 21.
The John Wickham Memorial Trophy was unveiled at the awards.
Tristan writes: “My father’s absence has left an irreplaceable hole within the lives of many, from his colleagues at work to a worldwide bass angling community. He was a voice of reason and a true friend to many, always trying to uplift and improve the lives of those around him.
“Let us ensure that the memory of my father is honoured by a system that upholds the values of justice and protects the innocent. By doing so, you contribute to the safeguarding of our community and send a powerful message that heinous crimes will not go unanswered.”
The petition will be handed to the National Prosecuting Authority before the bail hearing.
To add your name to the petition, click here.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za