The Vereeniging Magistrates’ Court has denied bail to Mandlakayise Louis Makhunga (44) of Alberton, who is facing six counts of murder, 17 counts of attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. His co-accused, Jaulane Mlambe (30) of Germiston, and Sabelo Mchunu (25) of Kliprivier, who face the same charges, have abandoned their bail applications.

According to Lumka Mahanjana, National Prosecution Authority spokesperson for Gautend says it is alleged that on the afternoon of February 3, 2026 a minibus taxi transporting 22 passengers was travelling along the R59 near Meyerton from Johannesburg to Lesotho when it was approached by a vehicle carrying the three accused.

The occupants of the vehicle allegedly opened fire on the taxi, resulting in the deaths of six passengers and leaving several others injured.

Following the shooting, the accused allegedly rammed the taxi, exited their vehicle, and hijacked a nearby motorist before fleeing the scene.

Mahanjana says police officers who were in the vicinity responded after being alerted by the hijacking victim and pursued the accused.

During the chase, the accused abandoned the hijacked vehicle and fled into nearby bushes. Mlambe and Mchunu were apprehended shortly thereafter. Makhunga was arrested a few hours later in the Kliprivier area after being spotted by security officers walking barefoot and with a gunshot wound.

During bail proceedings, the State, represented by Advocate Reuben Chabalala, opposed the application.

The Investigating Officer’s affidavit highlighted that Makhunga does not have a fixed address, failed to cooperate with police, and misrepresented information in his bail affidavit, including claims of owning a farm. The State argued that the accused poses a flight risk and that his release would not be in the interests of justice.

In denying bail, the Magistrate found that the State has a strong case against Makhunga and that he attempted to mislead the court. The court further noted his lack of a fixed address and the likelihood that he would evade trial, particularly considering the severity of the charges and the potential for multiple life sentences.

The matter has been postponed to April 30 for further investigation.