Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
24 July 2026
Seven men briefly appeared before the Evander Magistrate’s Court today in connection with a series of serious offences, including kidnapping, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, housebreaking and murder.
The accused are Vincent Bheki Mhlongo, Santos La Macho, Sbusiso Abel Nkutha, Jacob Fumo, Alsina Mawayi, Bhekani Mhlongo and Thabo Ndlovu.
They face three counts of kidnapping, two counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, as well as charges of housebreaking and murder.
According to one of the victims, he and others were allegedly taken from Marikana to a panel-beating business in Kinross, where they were allegedly assaulted and forced to confess to stealing vehicle rims.
The victim further told the court that he fears for his safety, alleging that one of the accused threatened him. He also claimed the suspect accused him of being a drug addict who steals to support his habit.
The case has been postponed to 28 July 2026 for a formal bail application. All seven accused remain in custody.
The arrests have sparked mixed reactions within the community.
Some residents have welcomed the arrests, saying no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, regardless of the allegations against the victims. They argued that suspected criminals should be handed over to the police and allowed to face the justice system.
Others, however, criticised the arrests and accused the police of failing to deal effectively with crime. They alleged that suspects previously handed over to police with evidence were released without proper investigation.
Some community members also claimed that when they apprehend suspects and contact police for assistance, they are sometimes told that no police vehicle is available to respond.
