WATCH | Bail application in Camperdown sister murder continues
Investigating officer Sergeant Mfanuvele Gumede told the court he was “100%” opposed to the release of both accused.
The State on Monday outlined what it described as a murder-for-hire plot in the ongoing bail application of Nikiwe Mngwengwe (46), accused of orchestrating her sister’s killing, and her co-accused Duncan Ntuli, alleged to be the hitman.
Investigating officer Sergeant Mfanuvele Gumede told the court he was “100%” opposed to the release of both accused, citing the seriousness of the charges, alleged witness interference and the strength of the state’s case.
Mngwengwe and Ntuli face charges of conspiracy to commit murder and premeditated murder in connection with the killing of Fundisa Mngwengwe, who was found dead at her home in Mkhambathini in March next to her three-year-old child.
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Gumede testified that the murder, classified as a Schedule 6 offence, was carried out in the presence of the toddler, who was left overnight next to the deceased’s body.
“That is an indication of a person who is dangerous and heartless,” he said in opposing Ntuli’s release on bail.
He described the killing as a gender-based violence case that has sparked public outrage.
“It is a gruesome murder. A mother was taken from her children. Ntuli has shown no remorse to the court even though the state has sufficient evidence against him,” Gumede told the court.
The court heard that the state’s case is supported by multiple witnesses. Gumede said one witness claims Ntuli admitted to carrying out the killing, while another confirmed payments allegedly made by Mngwengwe to Ntuli.
He further alleged that Ntuli interfered with witnesses and issued threats to kill, with some witnesses indicating they feared for their safety should the accused be released.
At least one witness is being considered for witness protection.
Gumede also testified that Mngwengwe allegedly destroyed the cellphone she used at the time the crime was orchestrated in an attempt to conceal evidence and is now using a different device.
In addition, Gumede told the court that Ntuli had misrepresented his criminal history. While Ntuli previously told the court he had no prior convictions, fingerprint records show a previous offence for which he paid a fine in 2004.
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He added that Ntuli’s father had distanced himself and indicated he would not accommodate him if granted bail.
Earlier, Mngwengwe took the stand in support of her bail application covering herself with a light blanket and face mask. Her attorney told the court she had covered herself due to pictures of her being taken in court however the magistrate ruled that he had given permission for the media to take pictures.
On the stand, Mngwengwe cited her employment as a teacher, her role as the sole breadwinner and her health condition as exceptional circumstances.
She denied any involvement in the murder and rejected claims that she would interfere with witnesses, telling the court she intends to plead not guilty.
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Mngwengwe also told the court she was arrested while at Northdale Hospital in Pietermaritzburg and has not received medical assistance at Westville Correctional Centre despite requesting it.
The bail application continues.
