Vhembe landlord killer denied bail

LIMPOPO- Angry Makwarela residents held a protest march from the Viva garage, better known as the Dr Nkhelebeni Phaswana garage in Sibasa to the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court last Wednesday to show their dismay over the 44-year-old police sergeant who faces a charge of a murder after he reportedly shot his landlord on November 20 in Makwarela township, Vhembe.

The victim succumbed to his injuries after being taken to hospital for treatment.

During the accused’s appearance, a large number of angry protestors from Makwarela township carried placards displaying messages stating that they oppose bail being granted.

Sgt Nditsheni Lefty Mphephu (44) who is attached to the police in Thohoyandou was charged with the murder of Theit Muthige after Muthige suffered gunshot wounds in the stomach and upper body.

This incident is said to have happened after Muthige requested the policeman to turn down his music as students who also rented from him were preparing for their final examinations.

The case was postponed to February 29 for further investigations. He was remanded in custody.

The secretary of the Makwarela branch of the South African Civic Organisation (Sanco), Phanuel Mulaudzi said they were relieved that the suspect had not been granted bail. “What he did was careless and inconsiderate of the future of those who were studying.”

Mulaudzi described the deceased Muthige as an agent for development in the communities in Makwarela. To show solidarity, they took a register of all those who came to court in search of justice for Muthige.

Limpopo police spokesperson, Brig Hlulani Mashaba confirmed the incident. “The suspect was arrested in Vuwani village on November 21.”