Phumlani Muzi Nene, Mongameli Xaba, Mhlengu Shange, and Siyabonga Zondo.
The Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrates’ Court once again remanded four private security guards in custody following their appearance on Wednesday, November 19, for a bail hearing.
The accused Phumlani Muzi Nene (31), Mongameli Xaba (29), Mhlengu Shange (32), and Siyabonga Zondo (29) are employed by a private security company tasked with guarding taxi ranks and routes in the Elukwatini and Nhlazatshe areas.
They are all charged with attempted murder following an incident that occurred at Nhlazatshe Crossings on November 04.
They are expected to return to court on November 25 for the bail judgment verdict.
According to the spokesperson for the Elukwatini Police Station, Sergeant Wiseman Nkosi, the security guards were arrested after an altercation began when the security personnel allegedly stopped a victim and demanded to search his vehicle.
“It is alleged that the victim was stopped by these security personnel, who demanded to search his vehicle. When he refused, an argument ensued. He then tried to leave, but they attempted to corner him. When they realised that they could not stop him, they then started hitting the vehicle with stones and shot at him,” said Nkosi.
The victim managed to escape, immediately proceeded to the police station, and opened a case. Police later traced and arrested the four suspects at Nhlazatshe No. 05.
Their arrest was welcomed by many community members, who accused the guards of allegedly terrorising people who were hitchhiking.
They are calling on the justice system to ensure that they are dealt with and taught that they are not above the law.
“They claimed to be the bosses of the roads, untouchable because they are heavily armed. They sometimes beat up motorists who give people lifts, even though they know that the area has a problem with public transport. To make matters worse, they will stop cars and search them as if they are police. We are happy that they are arrested, hoping that they will be sent to jail,” said one of the victims.
