Police say more arrests are imminent over Lusikisiki mass murder

The families of the 18 people killed in Ngobozana Village, in Lusikisiki, say they are hopeful that the police will finally bring to book the people responsible for the heinous crime.

Forty-five-year-old Siphosoxolo Myekethe made his first appearance in the Lusikisiki Magistrate Court after he was arrested at his home on Monday.

During his court appearance, it was revealed that Myekethe is currently out on parole and is also wanted for another case.

He faces 18 counts of murder and one of being in possession of a firearm, an AK47 assault rifle.

The arrest comes days after confusion about the apprehension of three persons of interest as announced by the police minister, Senzo Mchunu, at a memorial service for the deceased, raising the residents’ hopes that justice would be served soon.

Chief Thahle Mkwedini from the Xobela family says they are happy that someone has been caught and they hope the full might of the law will be exercised.

Amampondo King, Daluxolo Sigcau, also highlighted the issue of the lack of trust in authorities to thoroughly investigate matters that are of concern to them.

He says all they want is for the suspects to be dealt with.

Eighteen people, including 15 women, were gunned down at two homesteads 11 days ago as they were preparing for unveiling services.

The victims will be buried in Lusikisiki at the weekend.

The National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) Luxolo Tyali says the accused intends to apply for bail.

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Nomthetheleli Mene, says more arrests are imminent.

The case was postponed to next week Tuesday for further criminal profiling, a report from the Correctional Services Department on his parole status and possible bail application.

Some social media users welcomed the arrest, while some poked holes in the parole system.

So, our wonderful parole system has struck again. #Lusikisiki

— Jeff Moloi (@jeffersohn) October 9, 2024

@LifeWithThami @eNCA I stayed in Lusikisiki working there for 20years, that was the most peaceful place to be i think there are izinkabis there killing innocent people , the mass shooting came as a shock to that small town.

— Cirha (@Ncibana) October 9, 2024

The APC welcomes the arrest of suspects in the chilling murder of 18 civilians in Lusikisiki. We hope justice will be done for the families of the deceased. Crime must be fought ruthlessly.

— African People’s Convention (APC) Official (@APC_Live) October 9, 2024

The thugs who twice broke into our home in PSJ on consecutive Fridays a few years ago & cleaned up our father’s goods including cooked food were from Mcobothini, Lusikisiki. They were later forced to leave the village by the community & ran away to KZN.

— Zotsho 🇿🇦 (@LoyisoSidimba) October 9, 2024