DELMAS — Xolani Boy Masuku and Samuel Mthokozisi Mabethe appeared before the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 25 May, in connection with the 2023 murder of Sibongiseni Sithole.
The two accused face charges of murder, imputing witchcraft and defeating the ends of justice.
During proceedings, the court heard that both accused appeared without legal representation and indicated their intention to apply for Legal Aid assistance. The matter was postponed to 02 June 2026 to allow them time to secure legal representation.
The court also heard that the accused are expected to formally apply for bail once their legal representatives have been appointed.
Outside court, community members, friends, relatives and members of the Traditional Healers Organisation gathered in support of the Sithole family. Supporters picketed outside the courthouse carrying placards reading “Justice for Sibongiseni ‘Lavish’ Sithole”, while singing struggle songs and calling for justice.
According to a media statement previously issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Mpumalanga, police launched a search for the two suspects after warrants of arrest were issued.
Police alleged that Sithole was at the home of the two accused on 11 June 2023 when he was allegedly stabbed. His body was later found dumped a few metres from the house. The body was reportedly discovered by a passer-by, who alerted the family.
The statement further indicated that Masuku and Mabethe were initially arrested following the incident, but the matter was not enrolled at the time due to insufficient evidence.
Police said the case was later re-investigated, with additional evidence and witness statements collected before the docket was resubmitted to court. Following the issuing of the warrants of arrest, police appealed to members of the public for assistance in tracing the suspects, alleging that they had gone into hiding.
In an update issued by police on 22 May 2026, the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that Masuku was arrested in Tweefontein after community members provided information, while Mabethe later handed himself over to police in Delmas.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, welcomed the arrests and praised community cooperation in assisting police investigations.
Speaking after the court proceedings, the mother of the late Sibongiseni Sithole said she was relieved that the matter was finally before court.
“I am very happy that justice is finally coming through for my son. I believe the court will make the right decision,” she said.
Masuku and Mabethe remain in custody pending their next court appearance.
As the matter is before court, the allegations against the accused have not yet been tested and they are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
