A group of angry residents picketed outside the Kwa-Thema Police Station near Springs on Tuesday, demanding justice for murdered Bandile Tsamai after the police released the man suspected of his murder.

The 24-year-old was shot and killed two weeks ago, allegedly over a land dispute. His bruised body was found less than 20m from his home. He also sustained two bullet wounds, one to his forehead and the other in his upper body.

Tsamai’s brother Zamokuhle says the night before they found his body, the suspect forced his way into their home wielding a gun, demanding to see his brother.

“I told him he was not at home. The man continued hurling insults and threatening to kill him wherever he found him. Bandile did not return home that night. We couldn’t get hold of him and feared for his safety,” he adds.

The deceased’s uncle, Fanyana Tsamai, told African Reporter that he heard gunshots outside his house in the early morning hours but did not suspect it was his nephew being gunned down.

“A neighbour alerted us about the discovery, and I knew then the suspect carried out his threats,” he says.

The uncle added Tsamai and the suspect had recently been fighting over a piece of land from where the suspect runs a business.

“The land belonged to Bandile’s grandfather, who leased it to the suspect over the years. Two weeks ago, he approached me angrily, alleging that Bandile broke into the site and stole some items,” he says.

To keep the peace the uncle offered to repair the damages and asked for forgiveness on his nephew’s behalf.

“I thought we mended bridges until the suspect came charging in, demanding to see Bandile and threatening his life,” he says.

Tsamai is demanding justice for his late nephew.

Kwa-Thema police spokesperson Constable Nkululeko Mangudlela confirmed a case of murder is under investigation.

“Police officers found two cartridges and one round of live ammunition on the crime scene.”

Mangudlela says the suspect had to be released due to a lack of evidence.

“Investigations are still underway,” he adds.