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The seven men charged in connection with the Lusikisiki massacre have appeared in court together for the first time today 26 November 2024. They are linked to the tragic shooting that claimed at least 18 lives in the Ngobozana community of the Eastern Cape on September 27, 2024.
In addition to facing 18 counts of murder, several suspects are also accused of possessing illegal firearms allegedly used in the crime.
On Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the seven defendants, connected to this heinous act, made their first appearance together at the Lusikisiki Magistrates Court. The group includes Mzukisi Ndamase, the alleged orchestrator of the massacre, along with co-accused Siphosoxolo Mayekethe, Aphiwe Ndende, Lwando Abi, Bonga Hintsa, Zenande Paya, and Mawethu Nomdlwembu.
Ndamase is currently serving time for robbery and murder, and authorities have identified him as the mastermind behind the tragedy. Meanwhile, Paya and Nomdlwembu were apprehended in Flagstaff, a few kilometers from the crime scene, while in possession of several firearms. Furthermore, Ndamase requested the court to drop the 18 charges against him, claiming he has been in prison since 2007 and has never been out. His request was then denied.
All defendants have opted not to seek bail, reflecting the gravity of the charges against them. The case has been remanded to the 26th for further investigations.
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