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A 62-year-old man from Lusikisiki, employed as a security guard at Matafana Junior Secondary School, is set to apply for bail after being arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 13-year-old boy. The bail hearing is scheduled for June 24, 2024, before the regional court judge.
The incident, which has sparked outrage and grief in the community, occurred when the security guard spotted a group of eight boys behind the school, allegedly using Wi-Fi on their cellphones. Upon noticing the boys, the guard reportedly fired his weapon as they attempted to flee. One boy was injured in the arm, while another, identified as Yanga Msongelwa, was tragically shot in the head and died at the scene.
Yanga Msongelwa, a 13-year-old student, was laid to rest on June 7, 2024, at his family home. The funeral was attended by many community members, who expressed their sorrow and called for justice.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Eastern Cape confirmed the bail application through its spokesperson, Mr. Luxolo Tyali. Support during the proceedings is being provided by Miss Nombini Sobekwa from the Lusikisiki Advice Centre and the Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBV&F) Forum, both of which have been active in addressing common issues in the city.
The Matafana Junior Secondary School is located in the Mantusini area of Ntshamathe, under the Port St. John’s Local Municipality. The villages of Lusikisiki are part of this jurisdiction, and the local community has been deeply affected by the tragedy.
As the case progresses, there is a strong call for accountability and justice for Yanga Msongelwa. The upcoming bail hearing will be closely watched by the community and advocates for children’s rights, who are urging for a thorough and transparent judicial process.
As the investigation continues, the Nhlangwini people, along with other South African citizens, await answers and hope for a swift resolution to this tragic case.
