Young bouncer stabbed to death in eMbalenhle: court postpones case for further investigation
Thokozane Mabena must return to court on November 4 in connection with the murder of Bongani Hlongwane (18) in August.
The Evander Magistrate’s Court has, on October 23, postponed the murder case of Thokozane Mabena to November 4 for further investigation.
Mabena’s arrest follows the murder of Bongani Hlongwane (18), who worked as a bouncer at one of the entertainment venues in Extension 15, eMbalenhle, on August 3. Mabena was released on bail.
It is alleged that Hlongwane was stabbed four times and later succumbed to his injuries at a local clinic. According to information received, on the night of the incident, Hlongwane was manning the gate at the venue during an event that required patrons to pay an entrance fee.
Mabena and his friends allegedly refused to pay, which led to an argument. During the altercation, Hlongwane was reportedly stabbed multiple times.
Following the incident, Hlongwane’s family appointed a lawyer to assist them in ensuring that justice is served. His aunt, Bongi Mona, said the family decided to take legal steps due to their dissatisfaction with the police investigation.
“We noticed that the suspect was only arrested weeks after the incident, and the investigating officer seems to be dragging his feet when it comes to Bongani’s case.
“We have seen many cases disappear in the hands of the police because they are free to do as they wish. We want our lawyer to make sure that doesn’t happen – we want justice and closure as a family,” said Mona.
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Mona added that the family’s trust in the police has deteriorated, citing other families who have struggled to get justice for their loved ones due to poor investigations or alleged corruption.
“The detective told us there are no witnesses, yet the incident happened at a busy entertainment place with many people, including Bongani’s friends.
“That alone raised our suspicions. Now we have a lawyer who will follow up with the detectives and prosecutors to ensure the case moves forward,” said Mona.
Mona said the family is heartbroken by Hlongwane’s death, describing him as a promising young man who was still studying and had hopes of improving his family’s life once he completed his tertiary education.
