Nine suspects accused of participating in the alleged mob killing of Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) lecturer Madasi Sifundo have been granted bail of R2 000 each by the Soshanguve Magistrates’ Court. The accused, including Koketso Molambo, 37, Thapelo Mothemani, 33, and Maggie Phasha, 56, appeared in court facing a charge of murder linked to the incident.
Mob Justice Incident
According to National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, police received a complaint shortly after midnight on February 25, 2026, about a mob justice incident in Soshanguve Block L, north of Pretoria. The community had allegedly accused Sifundo of raping two minor children aged nine and 12. Upon arrival at the scene, police found Sifundo lying naked and face down in the street, and he was certified dead at the scene by emergency medical services.
Following investigations, police arrested the nine suspects two days after the deadly incident. During the bail hearing, the prosecutor opposed the application, arguing that the seriousness of the charge and the fact that the accused are known to State witnesses raised concerns that they could intimidate them if released. However, the court ruled that exceptional circumstances existed which, in the interests of justice, justified granting bail to the accused.
Investigations and Next Steps
The case has been postponed to April 29, 2026, for further investigations. The South African Police Service is continuing to investigate the matter, and the community is urged to come forward with any information that may assist in the case. The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has also been involved in the matter, ensuring that justice is served.
Some of the key facts about the case include:
- The nine suspects were granted bail of R2 000 each
- The accused face a charge of murder linked to the incident
- The community had allegedly accused Sifundo of raping two minor children
- The case has been postponed to April 29, 2026, for further investigations
