The five men who were arrested in connection with the murder of the late Collins Chabane Mayor, Moses Maluleke, appeared together in the Malamulele Magistrate's Court for the first time on Monday, 19 September.
Maluleke (56) was shot dead during an incident that took place at his home at Xikundu on 21 July this year, where the accused allegedly shot and killed him and injured his 18-year-old son. Robbery was believed to be the motive at the time of the incident.
Shumani Nemadodzi (47) and Avhatakali Mulaudzi (42), who were the first to be arrested, were followed into the court room by Avhatakali Isaac Mudau (36) and Wiseman Baloyi (37). Tshianeo Munyai (30) was the last to be arrested.
All five suspects face charges of conspiracy to commit murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, murder, attempted murder, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
During a previous appearance, Mudau made a bail bid but abandoned it soon afterwards without providing a reason. Baloyi is presently applying for bail. He submitted an affidavit and supported his bail orally. He indicated that he would not plead guilty as he had never been to the mayor's home. Baloyi said that what the late mayor's brother, Mr Humphrey Mugakula, was telling the country, that he had painted the mayor's house, was not true. He also narrated his three-day ordeal at the hands of police.
Whether Nemadodzi and Mulaudzi will apply for bail is not clear. The case was adjourned to 29 September for further bail hearings.
According to Ms Mashudu Malabi Dzhangi of the National Prosecuting Authority, the state indicated that it would oppose the bail application, considering the severity of the charges they were facing.
Among those in attendance during Monday's court appearance were the MEC for Safety and Security in Limpopo, Ms Poly Boshielo, Maluleke family members and many supporting community members. The newly elected Collins Chabane mayor, Cllr Shadrack Maluleke, who has maintained a presence during the appearances, was also in court. He said he was convinced that the law would take its course, that justice would be served and that the family would finally have closure in this matter.
At the entrance gate, outside the courtyard, a large group had gathered again and were singing and beating drums. Most of those in attendance wore ANC regalia. Many police officers were also present.