KZN man accused of raping and murdering cousin denied bail
Court refuses bail for KZN man after threats and attacks make his release a security risk.
A Mkhambathini, KZN, man accused of raping and murdering his cousin was denied bail by the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court yesterday.
The Witness reports that the state argued that 40-year-old Skhumbuzo Maphumulo’s life would be at risk if he were released.
Investigating officer Dumisani Mbhele testified that while Maphumulo was behind bars, his house was burnt down by community members.
His alternative address in Henley Dam was also rejected by residents, who did not want him living in their area.
Mbhele told the court that Maphumulo had a history of violence. A case of assault was opened against him in 2003, and a protection order was taken out against him in 2017.
Maphumulo intends to plead not guilty to the rape and murder of 36-year-old Nompilo Gcabashe.
Outside court, Maqongqo community members gathered in support of Gcabashe’s family.
Her father, Alson Gcabashe, says what made the ordeal even more painful was that the accused was a close relative. “I am happy that he did not get bail. He should get locked up for life for what he did to my daughter,” he says.
The case was postponed to October 29 for a regional court allocation and further investigation.
Read original story on witness.co.za
