THE three men linked to the murder of Rand Water boss Teboho Joala and his bodyguard Sfiso Shange appeared for the first time in the Lenasia Magistrates Court on Monday, 22 April, amid heightened police security.
Khulekani Mdluli, Zamokuhle Ntombela, and Lindani Mtshali face charges including three counts of attempted murder, two counts of murder, and premeditated murder, following the fatal shooting at a back-to-school event in Zakariyya Park.
Magistrate Maggy Van der Merwe explained that although the accused could apply for bail, their charges under schedule six required substantial evidence for consideration.
“In cases of higher schedule offences, the court requires a detailed bail application with evidence. Based on this evidence, I will decide on your eligibility for bail,” she said.
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ANC chief whip of Council Sthembiso Zungu, injured in the shooting that took Joala’s and Shange’s lives, expressed his emotional turmoil upon seeing the accused, particularly identifying one as the shooter.
“Seeing those guys, especially recognising the shooter, has been emotional. The incident continues to traumatise many,” he shared.
The Joala family has welcomed the arrest of the suspects, expressing hope in the criminal justice system to resolve the case.
Family spokeswoman Liabo Seto conveyed their confidence to Daily Sun.
“While nothing can bring Teboho back, we trust the criminal justice system to conclude this matter. We will refrain from further comments to allow law enforcement to complete their investigation.”
The case has been postponed to Monday, 29 April, for a formal bail application, with the accused remaining in police custody until then.
