By STAFF REPORTER
25 June 2026 – The former askari, Joseph “Joe” Mamasela (74) and his accomplice, Michael “Tebogo” Macitinga (66), briefly appeared before the Benoni Regional Court facing multiple charges, including 15 counts of murder, arson, kidnapping, unlawful possession of explosives, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as defeating or obstructing the administration of justice. These are charges emanating from the Serious Organised Crime Investigation’s Crimes Against the State probe into allegations that came out from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) relating to three incidents, Operation Zero Zero, Nietverdiend 10 and the KwaNdebele 9.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said in all these incidents, the accused are alleged to have deceived the youths into believing they were participating in operations against the apartheid government. Mogale said instead, they met their deaths at the hands of the suspect and two accomplices, who allegedly operated from Vlakplaas under the command of Eugene de Kock.
“Subsequently, the duo proceeded to apply for bail. Bail was granted at R5000 for accused 1 and the second accused was released on a warning. Their bail conditions included tender passports, not to apply for travel documents, stay within Gauteng province, inform an investigating officer of travel plans in writing, and report to Moroka and Benoni police station once per month.
“The third accused in the case has since been deceased. By midnight tonight, this case will be 41 years old. Matter was transferred to the South Gauteng High court sitting in Benoni on 1 February 2027 for the duo’s next appearance,” said Mogale.
The Guardian 