THE suspect implicated in the murder of Zakhele Dlamini is set to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 17 July.
Thabo Tshabalala faces a schedule six offence, including murder, kidnapping, and two counts of possessing an unlicenced firearms and ammunition.
The magistrate is expected to deliver the bail judgment on Wednesday, 17 July. The state prosecutor, Willie Xaba, is firmly against granting bail.
Tshabalala's defence, led by Advocate Jabu Maluleke, argued that his client, being diabetic, requires bail to access medical care.
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Dlamini tragically lost his life in an umjolo hostage drama. Dlamini (42) from Mnisi section in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, was fatally shot twice while trying to solve a dispute between a couple.
The community and Dlamini's family strongly oppose the suspect's bail. Philisiwe Dzai, Dlamini's sister, expressed her profound grief.
"Since my brother's death, I've been unwell, suffering from stress diagnosed by doctors. It's hard to find sleep and thinking of him brings me to tears," she said.
"The suspect has stolen a respected and loving man from us. All we seek now is justice for his untimely death.
"Zakhele was a peacemaker, tragically shot during his attempt to resolve a conflict. The suspect, showing no remorse, held him hostage even after injuring him. He does not deserve bail," Yamkela Mounyiswa, Dlamini's niece said.
"Zakhele was a peaceful man. His brutal death has left us all traumatised. The suspect, unremorseful and now in prison, enjoys amenities while we grapple with our grief and trauma," Neighbour Zodwa Mpangula highlighted the community's trauma.
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