Two suspects accused of the murder of activist Loyiso Nkohla appeared in the Athlone Magistrates Court on Monday. Mziyanda Mdlungu and Mzubanzi Chulayo made a brief appearance in court, along with Zukisa Tshabile, who is also implicated in the case.
The trio is accused of being part of a plot to kill Nkohla and his wife, Nyameka Mabandla. While Nkohla tragically lost his life in April of this year, Mabandla fortunately escaped unharmed.
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The State’s case alleges that Tshabile, Mdlungu, and Chulayo were each paid R20,000 for the murder of Nkohla and Mabandla.
The court previously heard that Chulayo admitted to attending a meeting where the alleged mastermind, Thobani Maxengana, planned the murder of the couple.
However, Maxengana, who was employed by Nkohla to manage one of their businesses, was found dead in his holding cell shortly after his arrest in November.
According to the State’s evidence, the motive behind the murder plot stemmed from a dispute over unpaid salaries.
Workers had reportedly complained to Nkohla about Maxengana’s failure to distribute their wages, leading to tensions between the accused and the couple. It is alleged that Maxengana, seeking revenge, devised a plan to eliminate Nkohla and his wife.
The case has been postponed, and all three accused are set to appear in court on February 15, 2024. The delay allows for further investigations and preparations to be made before the trial proceeds.
The tragic events surrounding the murder of Loyiso Nkohla have shocked the community and brought attention to the issue of violence against activists. Nkohla was known for his involvement in various social justice causes and his advocacy for the rights of marginalized communities.
As the court proceedings unfold, many questions remain unanswered. The trial will aim to shed light on the alleged murder plot and determine the extent of each defendant’s involvement. It is crucial that justice is served and that those responsible for this heinous crime are held accountable.
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The impact of Nkohla’s death has reverberated throughout the activist community, highlighting the risks and challenges faced by those who speak out against injustice.
It serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and supporting individuals who dedicate their lives to fighting for a more equitable society.
