A 35-YEAR-OLD man appeared in the Mkhulu Magistrates Court on Monday, 27 March for murder.
He is accused of killing Mathildah Siwele (53), who he allegedly beat up with a wooden mortar when he found her and a friend eating skopo and pap at a tavern in Justicia outside Mkhuhlu, Mpumalanga on 2 March.
During the bail application, Jerry Mnisi said he would move to an alternative address to live with his aunt.
Although investigating officer Detective Sergeant Given Mboweni didn't oppose bail, public prosecutor Stein Mkhonto said the accused had a previous record of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and paid a R750 fine.
Mnisi was then released on R3 000 bail.
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Angry residents, ANC members and traditional leaders who were in court to support Mathilda's family criticised Mnisi's release.
Mathilda's neighbour, Ntsako Sibuyi (33), said: "We're not happy with his release on bail, even though it's his constitutional right. He has blood on his hands and must rot in jail."
Assistant induna, Sabi Lubisi, said they are still healing and mourning Mathilda's death.
"We wanted him to be kept in jail until the matter is finalised. He's a troublesome man who is always fighting people for no apparent reason and taking their belongings," he said.
Speaking about Mathilda's murder, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, said the police received information about a woman's lifeless body at a liquor outlet in the area.
He said police and emergency personnel found the body on the ground and the woman was certified dead on the scene.
Mohlala said investigations revealed the victim was beaten with a wooden mortar by a man who fled the scene.
"The suspect was traced and arrested at his residence. He was charged with murder," he said.
The matter was postponed to 3 May for further investigations.
