Byline: Nonjabuliso Nhlambo
25 November 2025
Constable Zanele Zondo, Constable Ntsikelelo Mayataza, Constable Sandile Zondo, and Reservist Simphiwe Maseko from Embalenhle Police Station made their first court appearance on Friday, 21 November 2025, for the alleged murder of Mkhapheli Mbatha, who reportedly died on 2 October 2025.
The three Constables and the reservist who are currently suspended were arrested by IPID on Thursday, 20 November 2025.
It is alleged that Mbatha was assaulted and tortured by the accused officers who searched for drugs at his house in Mandela, Marikana Informal Settlement, Embalenhle.
The officers are facing a murder charge, two counts of Kidnapping, three counts of common assault, one count of assault GBH, and defeating the ends of justice.
The fifth suspect, Cnst Zwelakhe Foto, who was out of the province, made a brief appearance before the Evander Magistrates’ court on Monday, 24 November 2025.
His matter will be joined with the other officers on Thursday, 27 November 2025, at the Evander Magistrate’s Court for a formal bail application. The accused members are detained at a local correctional services facility until their next court date.
