The Richards Bay murder charge, levelled against alleged serial shooter, Dave Yates (56), has been held in abeyance. This after witnesses to the gunning down of Nigerian national, Chibuke Okeke (25) reportedly failed to attend an identity parade.

Yates, who is accused of targeting drug dealers, was transported to Richards Bay by detectives, but witnesses (also said to be foreign nationals) never arrived. Okeke is said to have been a ‘known drug dealer’ in the Richards Bay area and had a prior conviction for drug dealing. The Zululand Observer said he was shot dead in front of OK Grocers on the morning of June 20.

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The Richards Bay shooting came just hours after a Congolese national, Dikando Ziola (42) – who was out on bail of R5 000 for the possession of drugs – was shot in the face with a shotgun on Argyle Street, Dundee. Another suspected drug dealer was shot and wounded on Beaconsfield Street the next day, shortly before Yates was arrested.

He has twice claimed to be mentally ill, and asked the Hawks investigate his case as he ‘does not trust the local SAPS’. Yates will next appear in court in Dundee on August 6, pending a psychological evaluation.

For the full story, read this week’s edition of the Courier.

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