DA councillor and three others behind bars in Benoni murder case

A Democratic Alliance councillor and three others are behind bars for murder, attempted murder, and kidnapping in Gauteng. They will appear in the Benoni Magistrate's Court next week for a bail application.

A Democratic Alliance councillor and three others are behind bars for murder, attempted murder, and kidnapping in Gauteng.

It is alleged that the four accused kidnapped and assaulted Vuyisile Mzwakhe Khananda and another victim after suspecting them of having committed a housebreaking and theft at the councillor 's residence on July 17.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said councillor Kabelo Relitilwe Mahonko (40) and her three co-accused - Sibusiso Masondo (43), Muzi Des Godie (33), and Lethabo Nhlanhla Makgabo (19) - appeared before the Benoni Magistrate's Court on charges of murdering Khananda as well as attempted murder , and kidnapping.

Lumka Mahanjana, NPA regional spokesperson for the Gauteng Division, said the four drove with the victims and abandoned them on Longmore Street in Crystal Park, Benoni.

“Both victims were taken to hospital for medical treatment. Khananda later succumbed to his injuries. Following police investigations, the four accused were arrested on various dates between August 17 and 21, and are remanded in custody,” Mahanjana said.

The matter was postponed to September 1 for a formal bail application. Mahanjana said the State intends to oppose their release on bail.