GQEBERHA – Cell phone analysis, DNA tests, and fingerprint tests are still outstanding in the murder case of Gqeberha Public Prosecutor Tracy Brown, who was brutally killed near her home in July 2025, the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court heard on 3 March.
The Gqeberha mother was shot on 31 July in front of her partner at her Young Park home after the suspects allegedly followed her home from the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court, where she worked at the time.
Simthembile Xungu was arrested in August 2025, while Ayabulela Busakwe was arrested in early September 2025. The third suspect, Thamsanqa Mthembu, was arrested in December 2025.
During the court proceedings, Simthembile Xungu’s legal representative, Siyabonga Joko, requested a final remand date, stating that the matter has reportedly been ongoing for seven months.
Joko told the court that they were informed during the second appearance that additional charges would be added, but seven months later, this has yet to materialise.
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However, Magistrate Thabisa Mpimpilashe refused his request, stating that the cell phone analysis, DNA tests, and fingerprint tests are crucial for the investigation were yet to be completed.
She added that the matter was not trial ready, and that the additional charges need to be addressed due to one of the murder accused being linked to another kidnapping matter.
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As previously reported, co-accused Busakwe is facing charges of kidnapping, extortion and human trafficking. The affidavit of Warrant Officer Shane Bosch, the Hawks investigating officer, suggests more arrests may be imminent as authorities work to dismantle what appears to be a criminal network spanning from Gqeberha’s streets into correctional facilities.
The matter was remanded to 8 April. The three accused will remain in custody.
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