CAPE TOWN– A second accused in the Marikana tavern mass shooting appeared in the Athlone Magistrates’ Court on Monday 23 February, facing nine counts of murder, two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, and one count of attempted murder.
In Marikana on Saturday 17 January, 10 people were shot. Nine died, while one victim was left fighting for his life. (“Shebeen mass murder accused abandons bail application”, City Vision, 5 February).
Bail hearing set for 2 March
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Western Cape spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the 20-year-old accused is expected to appear in court again on Monday 2 March for a bail hearing.
“He has opted to defend himself against the Schedule 6 charges he is facing,” Ntabazalila said. He added that the co-accused, Bheki Manxiwa, had abandoned his bid for bail and that his case was postponed to Thursday 16 April.
“Community reaction to the Marikana tavern mass shooting
A community leader described the arrest of the second suspect as “great news” and praised the police officers for their work.
“The arrest gives us hope. We want the suspects to tell us the truth — nothing but the truth. Who instructed them to go around collecting money from local shops? Who supplied them with guns to shoot people? We want them to rot in jail. They do not deserve to remain in this community,” the leader said.
Community demands justice after Marikana tavern mass shooting
The leader added that the law must take its course. He also suggested that, given the young age of the accused, there may be individuals recruiting them to commit such crimes.
