Picture: Some of nine accused persons in court/Screengrab
By REGINALD KANYANE
11 March 2026- Nine persons who are accused of killing Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) lecturer, Madasi Sifundo were granted a R2000 bail each by the Soshanguve Magistrate’s Court. The accused, Koketso Molambo (37), Thapelo Mothemani (33), Solomon Maunatlala (32), Kholofelo Phasha (20), Kabelo Mothiba (43), Koketso Masuku (34), Lerato Matlala (37), Marry Dudu Mogale (43), and Maggie Phasha (56) allegedly killed Sifundo in a mob justice.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that on 25 February 2026, at around midnight, police received a complaint about a mob justice incident in Soshanguve Block L. Mahanjana said the members of the community were alleging that Sifundo had raped two minor children aged 9 and 12.
“Upon arrival at the scene, police allegedly found Sifundo lying naked and face down in the street. Emergency medical services were called and certified him dead at the scene. Following investigations, police arrested the nine accused on 27 February 2026.
“During the bail application, the accused, through their legal representatives, applied to be released on bail. The state prosecutor, Thandi Nduli, opposed the application based on the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the accused are known to state witnesses, which raises concerns that they may intimidate them,” she said.
Mahanjana further said the court, however, found that exceptional circumstances exist which, in the interest of justice, permit the release of the accused on bail. She added that the matter has been postponed to 29 April 2026 for further investigations.
The Guardian 