Durban Court Orders Police To Bring Pastor Accused Of Stabbing Actor’s Sister Over 40 Times
The Durban Magistrate’s Court has issued a firm order demanding that police bring a 34-year-old Burundian pastor before court after he allegedly launched a violent attack on actor and comedian Pastor Mjosty’s sister and her daughter.
The accused man, who faces attempted murder charges, was not present during his scheduled court appearance, prompting the magistrate to question why he had not been brought before the court despite being in police custody.
The court heard that the suspect remained in hospital after allegedly suffering a hand injury during the incident. However, Magistrate Scelo Zuma criticised police for failing to follow legal procedures by allowing him to remain in a medical facility without first appearing before a magistrate.
The dramatic court proceedings in KwaZulu-Natal highlighted growing concerns around how the case has been handled since the suspect’s arrest.
“The police broke the law by taking it upon themselves to take him to hospital without bringing him before court first,” Magistrate Zuma said.
He further ruled that the decision by hospital officials to transfer the accused for psychiatric evaluation was also unlawful without a court assessment.
“He must appear so that the court can examine his condition and determine whether he is fit to stand trial. I require you to bring him to court tomorrow for his first appearance,” Zuma ordered.
Accused Allegedly Attacked Mother And Daughter
The accused faces four charges linked to the incident involving Nomthandazo Mbhele, 43, and her daughter.
According to the allegations before court, Mbhele suffered severe injuries after being attacked more than 40 times, while her daughter was also injured during the incident.
The suspect faces two counts of attempted murder, one relating to Mbhele and another involving her daughter. He also faces a charge of gender-based violence and an additional charge related to allegedly being in South Africa without valid documentation.
The case has attracted public attention because Mbhele is the sister of popular comedian and actor Pastor Mjosty.
Police Await Medical Report After Hospitalisation
During proceedings, the investigating officer told the court that the accused had been arrested with an injury to his hand and was taken for medical treatment.
The officer explained that the suspect was expected to remain under medical observation for 72 hours before being transferred to police custody while awaiting his court appearance.
However, that period had already expired, with authorities still waiting for a medical report.
The investigator also told the court that the accused allegedly admitted to police that he was involved in the attack and that he injured his hand during the incident.
Family Demands Proper Handling Of Case
Representatives from the March and March organisation confirmed that they would continue supporting the Mbhele family as the legal process unfolds.
Advocate Xolani Zuma, who is assisting the family, said he would ensure the matter was handled correctly and that all legal avenues remained open.
He indicated that the family could consider private prosecution if the state decided not to proceed with the case.
The advocate also raised concerns about the handling of the matter, particularly following unconfirmed reports that the accused may have had substances in his system at the time of the alleged attack.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Durban Magistrate’s Court as police face pressure to explain the circumstances surrounding his delayed appearance.
The case remains under investigation.
