TWO weeks after the brutal attack on 87-year-old artist Dr Esther Mahlangu, Mpumalanga cops have managed to nab four suspects.
These suspects, two men and two women, were arrested on Thursday, 7 April, in different areas around KwaNdebele.
They are facing charges of housebreaking and possession of an unlicensed firearm. The suspects, who are between the ages of 32 and 37, are expected to appear before the Mdutjane Magistrates Court on Friday, 8 April.
The world-renowned Mahlangu, who is known for her bold, large-scale contemporary paintings that reference her Ndebele culture, was attacked in her house last month.
In the attack, her hands were tied with cable ties. There was also an attempt to strangle her and she was punched in the face and left unconscious on the floor.
Mahlangu, who lives with her five grandchildren, was alone at the time. She was taken to the hospital and treated for injuries.
Reliable sources close to Daily Sun have revealed that two of the suspects worked for Mahlangu.
They allegedly tipped off their co-accused about where to find the stolen items.
It is alleged that one of the suspects was found with Mahlangu’s stolen firearm where it had been hidden inside a toilet.
The suspect allegedly told the cops that he bought the firearm from a local man who was then taken for questioning and arrested.
Mpumalanga police spokesman Brigadier Selvy Mohlala confirmed the arrest of the suspects.
Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa welcomed the arrest of the suspects.
