Traditional healer and two sons denied bail

A traditional healer and his two sons accused of kidnapping, assault and murder were on Friday denied bail by the Mtubatuba District Court.

They are due back in the dock on 27 February.

In a lengthy bail application judgment, the magistrate said they had considered the safety of the trio and stability in the community if the accused were released on bail.

During the court appearances, some members of the public gathered outside the court precinct, calling for the bail application to be denied.

The magistrate heavily criticised the investigating officer for failing to present a balanced affidavit in the bail application, which the State did not initially oppose, which had not taken into consideration the sentiments of the victim’s family.

The magistrate granted the State’s application to reopen its case after new developments prompted the State to change tack and oppose bail.

These pertained to accused one, Khulekani Ngubane (48), who had allegedly previously assaulted a person and attempted to shoot another – matters reported to the police although no cases were registered.

Khulekani and his sons Sihle Zungu (24) and Mduduzi Ngubane (21), have been charged with the kidnapping, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and murder of Thandazani Mngomezulu (28) last year.

Police reported that Mngomezulu was under the influence of alcohol when he made a pass at the traditional healer’s girlfriend, and allegedly uttered unkind words about Khulekani.

The trio then allegedly retaliated on 15 December 2024.

“Khulekani took his two sons and went to fetch Mngomezulu from his home at Qwakini area in Mtubatuba. The three reportedly took Mngomezulu to their home with force, where they tied him against a tree and the father assaulted him.

“Mngomezulu was rescued by community members who pleaded with the traditional healer that he had had enough.

“After spending several days in hospital in Empangeni, Mngomezulu succumbed to his severe injuries,” said police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda.

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