Family seeks justice six years after hostel murder
Zakhele “Toni” Mvelase was allegedly beaten to death after mistakenly entering the wrong room at Diepkloof Hostel in 2019. His family says they are still waiting for accountability.
The family of Zakhele “Toni” Mvelase (25) says their search for justice continues six years after he was allegedly beaten to death at Diepkloof Hostel on December 14, 2019.
According to his brother, Sipho, Mvelase had returned from a year-end work function and intended to sleep in the hostel room he shared with his brothers.
However, he allegedly entered the wrong room by mistake and fell asleep there. The occupant of the room reportedly assaulted him, leaving him unconscious.
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“Our lives have never been the same since his passing. A neighbour who came to his rescue said he contacted the police while my brother was still alive. The police allegedly arrived at the scene and left without assisting, and that is when the suspect allegedly returned and finished him off,” Sipho said.
He said he was later called to identify his brother’s body and described the injuries as severe, particularly to his face.
“From his face, you could see he had been beaten with a metal object. His face was severely injured. My brother was a people person who wanted to complete his studies with Unisa and secure a permanent job so he could send our mother back home to KZN and support her. He had a petite build and was never involved in a fight in his life. I keep asking myself how much pain he endured while being beaten,” Sipho said.
The family has expressed frustration with the pace of the case, saying they have struggled to obtain clarity on its progress.
“My old and frail mother had to look for a lawyer to assist us in the matter, but we never received any assistance,” Sipho added.
Sipho further alleged that the accused faces additional rape charges in KZN.
The publication sent enquiries to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole, who confirmed the matter has been set down for plea and trial on March 6 in Court 7 at the Protea Magistrate’s Court.
“All evidence, including forensic evidence and witness testimony, will be presented at the trial stage. Regarding the outstanding rape case in KZN, we have requested the investigating officer to verify the current status of that case,” Mohlatlole said.
An enquiry was also directed to SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mpho Tshetlhane. No response had been received at the time of publication.
Readers will be updated as more information becomes available.
