Guard expected in Middelburg court after re-arrest in Soweto
A former security guard accused of murder was sought after he failed to appear in court, and was arrested just over a year later.
The police in Middelburg were out on a manhunt for Nqubeko Bright Mchunu (41) when he disappeared shortly after being released on bail in the murder case of Tshepo Maseko (33).
Maseko was killed on August 17, 2022 during protests at the Steve Tshwete Municipality, which lasted for about three months. Maseko was shot and killed.
According to information, Mchunu was employed as a security guard at the time. It is alleged the protesters started damaging properties, and that’s when the shooting incident occurred.
During that time, it was unknown who was responsible for the shooting, but the police conducted an intensive investigation, which led to the arrest of Mchunu as a suspect.
His first appearance in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court was on August 19, 2022.
Bail of R10 000 was granted in September 2022. The proceedings continued in court until March 9, 2023, but thereafter, Mchunu never returned to court. The matter was postponed to April 11, 2023, where a warrant for his arrest was issued.
After his disappearance, the police requested anyone who might have information about Mchunu’s whereabouts to contact the investigation officer, Sergeant Sizwe Malinga.
They received confidential information which led them to Soweto where Mchunu (now 43), was arrested on Friday.
He will appear in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.
Mpumalanga police commissioner Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela commended members for re-arresting the suspect.
“We are thankful to all stakeholders, including members of the public, who assisted with information, and not forgetting the media for continually playing a pivotal role in sharing valuable information with the public. Together we continue to move forward in the fight against crime,” adds Manamela.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za