MALAMULELE: The two adult suspects accused of murdering Malamulele social media comedian Khadziyane Ndivhuwo, popularly known as “Skeem Mafenya,” will remain behind bars after the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court denied them bail on Tuesday.

Magistrate Shikala Khathutshelo ruled against releasing the two accused, aged 23 and 20, following the State’s opposition to their bail applications, citing concerns over witness intimidation, the risk of them evading trial and the potential impact on the administration of justice.

The State’s investigating officer, Hlengani Mashaba, told the court that the accused posed a flight risk and could evade trial if released on bail.

Mashaba further warned that their safety could be at risk if granted bail, given the anger among the deceased’s fans following his fatal stabbing.

The State argued that releasing the accused could undermine public confidence in the justice system and create the perception that people accused of serious crimes could escape accountability.

The court also heard that the mother of accused number two had allegedly threatened witnesses.

In his ruling, Magistrate Khathutshelo indicated that the alleged threats raised concerns about the possibility of further interference with the case.

He said granting both accused bail under the circumstances could undermine the justice system.

Accused cite missed matric examinations

In their bail applications, both accused told the court that they were Grade 12 learners at New Era Private School and had already missed four examination papers following their arrests.

Accused number one, Given Makondo, 23, told the court that his school fees were paid by his father, who works at Phalaborwa Mines, and his mother, who is temporarily employed through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) within the Ba-Phalaborwa Local Municipality.

He said he was originally from Phalaborwa but had strong family ties in Mhinga village, where his paternal family resides.

Makondo indicated that, if granted bail, he would relocate from Mandosi to Mhinga village. He also offered to pay R1,000 bail.

The second accused, Malwandla Khosa, ( 20), told the court that he was also a Grade 12 learner at New Era Private School and hailed from Mphaphazela village.

He said his school fees were financed by his grandmother and biological father through monthly child support, who is separated from his unemployed mother.

Khosa told the court that, if released, he would live with his grandmother, who works as a hawker in Gauteng. He also offered R1,000 bail.

However, the State argued that both accused were no longer wanted at New Era Private School, contending that their school circumstances did not justify their release.

Family and community welcome ruling

The two accused, who reportedly handed themselves over to police after a manhunt was launched by police following the fatal stabbing of “Skeem Mafenya,” will remain in custody.

Vatsonga/Machanga Movement chairperson Pastor St Hagiyazo welcomed the court’s decision and encouraged members of the public to continue supporting the bereaved family.

The deceased’s family spokesperson and elder brother, Khutso Khadziyane, accompanied by his mother and other family members, also welcomed the ruling.

The accused attorney Rivoningo Maswanganyi said he will first consult his client for a possible appeal. The case stems from the fatal stabbing of Skeem Mafenya, whose death sparked grief among his family, friends and supporters in the Malamulele community.

The matter has been postponed to 11December for further investigations.

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