Closing arguments — and possibly a ruling — in the bail hearing of Pietermaritzburg security boss Bruce Mhlongo are expected this week.
Mhlongo is appearing in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court in connection with two double murders committed in Imbali in 2022.
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The first incident involved Mduduzi Shezi, chairperson of the KwaPata Taxi Association, and Nonhlanhla Ndaba, who was in the vehicle with Shezi when they were gunned down.
It is alleged that Mhlongo ordered Shezi’s killing because Shezi opposed him operating at the KwaPata taxi rank.
The second incident involved two teenagers — Alwande Mkhize and Aphiwe Mdunge — who were allegedly shot by Mhlongo and his security personnel.
Investigating officer Sergeant Bongani Molefe testified that Mhlongo did this to “clean the neighbourhood of drug dealers”.
This is Mhlongo’s second bail application. He was previously granted bail of R20 000 in a separate case relating to the 2022 murder of primary school teacher Thabani Innocent Zondi in KwaPata.
Last week, the court heard Molefe’s testimony. He is attached to the Murder and Robbery Unit — which focuses on cases involving three or more victims, as well as taxi-related killings.
Molefe made damning allegations, accusing Mhlongo of orchestrating robberies, break-ins and murders to expand his client base in the Edendale area.
Opposing bail, Molefe argued that Mhlongo is a flight risk, a threat to witnesses and police officers, and is likely to interfere with the investigation by concealing firearms needed for ballistic testing.
Last Friday, Mhlongo’s lawyer challenged Molefe’s testimony, arguing that there was no evidence before the court to support his claims.
He said Molefe was merely speculating and speaking hypothetically.
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Molefe rejected this, insisting there is evidence linking Mhlongo to the death of a witness.
The matter was adjourned to Wednesday for Mhlongo to provide an update on whether Njoms Security has been suspended from operating.
