Justice sought for hit-and-run victim
People of all ages, including learners, gathered outside the Scottburgh Magistrate's Court on May 16, questioning why the accused was released on R1 500 bail.
The Kelso community on the mid-South Coast is seeking justice for Amahle Nakho (13), who died tragically after she was struck by a vehicle in Pennington earlier this month.
People of all ages, including learners, gathered outside the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court on May 16, questioning why the accused, Bhekisisa Ngwane, who was charged with murder, had been released on R1 500 bail the previous day.
Placards with messages: ‘Does Amahle’s life cost R1 500?’, ‘Amahle’s life matters’ and ‘Go back to jail’ were held high outside the court for all to see.
“A number of community members know who the accused is, and I would rather have him in custody so that they don’t get hold of him before court proceedings continue,” said Henry, Amahle’s father.
“This tragedy has upset everyone, and all we want now is for justice to be served.”
Court officials addressed the crowd on the day and explained the proceedings and why Ngwane was released on bail.
They understood but were still unhappy and will continue showing their support for the family at the next court appearance on June 27.
“Amahle was in Grade 8 this year, and all her friends and other children from the community stood with us outside the court,” added Henry.
He stated that on the day of the fatal hit-and-run (May 5), Amahle had received a lift from Kelso (her residential area) to Pennington. She was apparently joined by her mother and two other children.
It is alleged that when they reached Pennington, the accused asked for money for the lift. It is believed that an ATM was not working at the time, and the nearest shop was closed, so they could not get cash back.
“I was told Amahle offered him R5 that she had on her, but it is believed he insisted on more,” said Henry.
At this point, the accused allegedly knocked Amahle with his vehicle on the corner of Gumtree and Pennington Drive at about 15:30 and drove off. She died at the scene shortly thereafter.
Police stated that the accused was arrested later that day and appeared in court.
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