Free State Rise Mzansi has welcomed the criminal proceedings against suspects arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of two women in separate incidents in Bloemfontein, Free State.
On Monday,8 January 2024, two suspects aged between 28 and 40 years old (Lehlohonolo Thomas Lehlohonolo Rankuoatsana) and Nhlanhla Jozi appeared before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court in connection with the kidnapping and murder of 16-year-old Bloemfontein School pupil Machaka Radebe.
The case against the duo Nhlahla Jozi and Lehlohonolo Rankutsoane has been postponed for a formal bail hearing on the 15h of January 2024. The two suspects were arrested after the police traced them through Machaka’s phone which they used to demand a ransom of R3000.
Recently two foreign nationals were also nabbed by the SAPS regarding the kidnapping and murder of Sibongile Portia Ngwana. Ngwana was reported missing on 28 November 2023.
Free State Rise Mzansi has applauded the police in arresting the suspects involved in Ngwana’s murder. The remains believed to be that of Ngwana were discovered in an open field near the M10 road in Bloemfontein.
Rise Mzansi Provincial Convenor, Nomsa Marchesi called on the full might of the law to be applied and for harsh penalties against the perpetrators.
“We encourage the presiding officers in these criminal proceedings to apply the full might of law and impose harsh penalties against these scavengers who prey on women. The police’s tireless efforts should be complemented and their efforts should not go to waste. The suspects should not be given bail especially when one looks into the type of crime they are alleged to have committed.” Nomsa Marchesi said.
