In a breakthrough in the investigations linked to two Philippi East mass killings, five suspects will appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where the matters will be joined. 

Among the five suspects are the two juveniles who made an about-turn when they abandoned their bail applications at the same court on Thursday.

Lilitha Nanzani, Sinothando Songca, Asavela Tshaya, and the two minors are expected to appear in court.

Police spokesperson, Colonel Andrè Traut, said they welcomed the swift and decisive action by the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes (SVC) Unit following the significant breakthrough that links the two brutal murder cases in Philippi East.

“Relentless investigative work by the SVC detectives resulted in the arrest of four suspects yesterday, two of them juveniles, believed to be behind the horrific incident of 30 September in which two victims were shot, set alight, and a third narrowly escaped. The meticulous investigation has also established a direct link between this case and another gruesome attack earlier in October, where seven victims were murdered and set alight.

“Five accused, including the suspects arrested in both cases, are now facing multiple charges of murder and attempted murder. They are expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court today, where the two matters will be joined,” said Traut.

Provincial commissioner of the Western Cape, Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile, commended the investigating team for their persistence and professionalism, noting that their success demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the SAPS to bringing perpetrators of violent crime to justice. 

“These arrests send a clear message that the South African Police Service will not tolerate barbaric acts of violence that rob communities of their safety and dignity. The dedication displayed by the Serious and Violent Crimes Unit reflects our resolve to hunt down and dismantle criminal groups who terrorise our communities,” said Patekile.

Police said they remain steadfast in their mission to ensure that perpetrators of heinous crimes are tracked, arrested, and face the full might of the law.

Currently, one of the juveniles is in a place of safety, while the other is detained at Pollsmoor Juvenile Section, as a place of safety is being sought for him. 

chevon.booysen@inl.co.za

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