Ward Councillor and Three Co-Accused Granted Bail on Murder, Attempted Murder and Kidnapping Charges
The Benoni Magistrates’ Court has granted bail to ward councillor Kabelo Relitilwe Mahonko (40) in the amount of R5 000, while her co-accused, Sibusiso Masondo (43), Muzi Des Godie (33), and Lethabo Nhlanhla Makgabo (19), were each granted bail of R2 000.
The four accused face charges of murder, attempted murder, and kidnapping.
It is alleged that between 16 and 17 July 2026, the four accused kidnapped and assaulted Khananda and another victim after suspecting them of having committed a housebreaking and theft at Mahonko’s residence.
Following the alleged assault on 17 July 2026, it is alleged that the accused 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 17 and 21 August 2026 and are remanded in custody.
During the bail proceedings, Mahonko, Masondo and Godie, through their legal representatives, submitted affidavits stating that they are first-time offenders, primary caregivers of their minor children, and that the State’s case against them is weak.
Makgabo similarly submitted an affidavit indicating that he is a first-time offender, is pursuing higher education, and that the State’s case against him is weak.
State Prosecutor Girly Mahlangu opposed the bail application and placed before the court an affidavit by the investigating officer, Sergeant Jane Mogopa. In the affidavit, Sergeant Mogopa stated that all four accused reside in the same area as State witnesses and could potentially interfere with them.
She further indicated that Mahonko is a key role player in the matter. However, the court found that the interests of justice permitted the release of all four accused on bail.
In reaching its decision, the court noted that Mahonko, Masondo and Godie are primary caregivers of their minor children and that there was no evidence suggesting that any of the accused posed a flight risk.
The court further ordered, as conditions of bail, that the accused surrender their passports, report to the Crystal Park Police Station once a week, and refrain from making any direct or indirect contact with witnesses.
The matter was postponed to 09 October 2026 for transfer to the Regional Court.
