Aubrey Tsengwa murder: 3 suspects in court as 4th hands himself over

KNYSNA NEWS - A dramatic turn of events unfolded in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court today, Monday 24 August, as three suspects - instead of two as was previously reported - appeared in the dock in connection with the conspiracy to murder case.

The three men appeared on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder, and a fourth count of attempted murder is expected to be added pending the condition of a hospitalised victim wounded during the assassination of Aubrey Tsengwa on Wednesday 19 August.

Daan Decksen Attorneys has come on record for accused one and two, while legal representation for the third accused has yet to be determined.

The State argued that the accused should be held in custody at George Prison, citing allegations that prison wardens at the local facility have a relationship with the accused.

The magistrate, however, did not grant the State’s request and ruled in favour of the defence’s concerns. The court noted that transferring the accused to George would inconvenience both the defence and the accused, particularly as the legal aid and defence attorney services are based in Knysna.

The magistrate further noted that consultations with all three accused still need to take place ahead of their next court appearance on Monday 31 August.

The State also revealed in court that a fourth suspect had handed himself over at the Plettenberg Bay Police Station. At the time of the court proceedings, the suspect was still being questioned and had yet to complete the formal charging process.

The Western Cape Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sizakhele William Dyantyi, confirmed the arrests and said the fourth suspect still needed to go through the charging process.

All three accused were remanded in custody until 31 August. Further details regarding the identities of the accused and the possible charges against the fourth suspect are expected to emerge as the investigation continues and court resumes on 31 August.

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A group of ANC members gathered outside the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 August. Photos: Rozano Alie