The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said three men from Soshanguve South briefly appeared in court and were charged with the murder of five-year-old Ditebogo Phalane.

According to NPA Regional Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, the three men, Elia Moeko (36), Ali Sithole (30) and Nido Gumbe (29), briefly appeared at the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court.

“They are all facing a charge of murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. In addition, Gumbe, a Mozambican national, is facing a charge of being illegal in the country.”

Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 10 May 2024, the three shot and killed Ditebogo when they were robbing his father, Tebogo Phalane, of his vehicle.

Also read: Two more arrested for the brutal murder of five-year-old Ditebogo

“After investigations by the Directorate of Priority Crime Detection led by Major General Khumalo, the three were arrested at Pretoria Moot Police Station on 23 May 2024, where they were kept in custody for other unrelated charges.”

However, police previously stated the suspects are arrested on the 20 May 2024.

She furthermore said the three abandoned their bail application and disclosed to the court that they had pending cases.

“Moeko has a pending case of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of unlicensed ammunition, while Sithole has a pending case at Ga-Rankuwa Magistrate’s Court that will appear on 28 June 2024, where he is facing charges of possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, attempted murder, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.”

Mahanjana said he also has a pending case at Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court.

Also read: Mayor visits the bereaved family of murdered Ditebogo (5)

“He is facing charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of ammunition. Furthermore, Gumbe also has a pending case at Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court, where he is facing charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of ammunition.”

This matter was postponed to 27 August 2024, for further investigations and a decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Meanwhile, the fourth suspect, is expected back in court on the 30 May.

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