Two suspects, Marvin Ndlovu (24) and Santos Makhonza (36), appeared in the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court on Monday November 28. A provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, said the two are accused of fatally stabbing Adolf Zitha (41) when he intervened during an alleged assault on his son (19). The incident reportedly occurred at a tavern in Xanthia near Bushbuckridge on Sunday November 27 at about 04:00.
Mohlala said the suspects were tracked down shortly after the incident. Zitha’s son, who was at the tavern, had reportedly gotten into a fight with the duo. It is alleged that the suspects assaulted him before notifying his father who went to the scene to investigate. Zitha was allegedly stabbed multiple times by the suspects who fled thereafter. His son then called for help. The victim was taken to hospital, but was certified dead by a doctor.
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Mohala said after the two men were found by the Bushbuckridge police, they were charged with murder during their first court appearance. The matter was postponed to December 5 for a formal bail application. They are to remain in custody.
The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has strongly condemned the incident. She praised the police for swiftly arresting the suspects. “The investigation will also try to find out whether the tavern complies with the stipulated trading regulations. We cannot turn a blind eye on the alleged assault that reportedly occurred around 04:00. We urge people to look after themselves when they go out, especially now that the festive season has started.”
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