The four men accused of murdering the seven members of the Mgxada family in Bityi last monthThe men were arrested after an intensive police investigation was launched after the seven people were gunned down on October 16 while mourning the murder of another family member.The four men are expected to apply for bail.The fourth was in hospital. He was wounded during a shootout with the police during the arrest.
The police first arrested two of the accused for possession of an unlicensed firearm. They then informed the police of the whereabouts of the other two accused in Mthatha.Addressing the mourners, Eastern Cape Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs MEC, Zolile William said Police Minister Bheki Cele has deployed the National Commissioner to head the investigation into the murder of eight Mgxada family members.“Bityi police station will be upgraded.
“The community suspects these killings are related to stock theft revenge, as the husband played a crucial role in the arrest of suspected stock thieves in the area. He is still in hiding. Police in the area are known for being under-resourced, resulting in poor policing.”
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