FIVE suspects arrested in connection with the fatal strangling of a policeman at the eSikhawini SAPS holding cells on Friday, face charges of murder after making their first appearance at the eSikhawini Magistrate’s Court earlier today.
Minenhle Zwelethu Shobede (18), Siyabonga Maseko (21), Blessing Qwabe (28), Mpatho Oscar Nzuza (20) and Busani Masinga (26) were remanded in custody and will reappear in court on 15 June for a formal bail application.
Warrant Officer and cell commander Johannes Ngwane (54) of Hluhluwe had been conducting his usual rounds when the prisoners violently attacked him, leaving him in a critical condition.
The inmates reportedly strangled him with a blanket until he lost consciousness. The police officer was rushed to hospital where he later died. The five suspects were awaiting trial on separate cases of armed robbery, housebreaking, murder and rape.
