One of four men accused of the murder of prominent local businessman Charl Munnik has been released on R5 000 bail – without the knowledge of the family.
Luyanda Lonzi, Sicelo Mase, Awonke Ziqu and Ndyebo Dotwana are all accused of the jeweller’s murder, which took place on 29 January 2021 in his High Street jewellery shop.
Dotwana was released on R5 000 bail in November last year. His bail conditions prohibit him from being in the Worcester precinct. He is allowed in the town only to attend court hearings and must stay in the Kraaifontein district, where he gave an address as his residence. The conditions also state he has to report to the Kraaifontein Police Station every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday until the finalisation of the criminal trial.
Dr Suzanne Haylett, Munnik’s sister, was shocked to hear one of the men had been granted bail.
“We called the detective and he confirmed the news,” she said.
“We also got clarity that the case would be heard in the High Court in Cape Town in April.”
Haylett further shared that the family is disappointed, although they understand the police are busy and don’t always have the time to get in touch with families.
“We are just sad he is out because he is a danger to society,” she said.
The murder took place when four men entered the shop, where Munnik’s staff were busy, while he was in his flat above the shop.
Two of the accused told the staff they were looking for a watch. Seconds later another staff member called for help from the kitchen where she was being attacked by one of the two robbers who had gained entry to the building. She was able to escape and rushed to the flat to alert Munnik.
He came into the shop and fired a shot, but was unaware of a fourth robber behind him, who shot him in the head.
All four suspects were apprehended and charged with robbery and murder.
With the first anniversary of the fateful incident looming Haylett says she is reliving it all again.
“He had just been discharged from hospital after beating Covid and Friday 21 January was the last time I saw him as we all had celebrated our mother’s birthday. I spoke to him on the phone every day until he passed away.”
For her and her family it is important to keep busy at this time.
“It is going to be a tough day.”
