The case against a man accused of killing a North West businessman has been postponed for consultations and continuation of bail proceedings. Sibongiseni Ngubane (33) appeared in the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court yesterday when his case was postponed to 27 September.

North West NPA spokesperson Henry Mamothame said during his appearance his lawyers read an affidavit in court citing reasons for him to be granted bail. The state opposed bail, and an investigating officer was called to give reasons why he was opposing bail.

‘The state highlighted the community's interest in the matter’

The investigating officer said three other suspects who are on the run may endanger his life. The accused was also pointed out at an identity parade by several witnesses. 

The state highlighted the community’s interest in the matter, following the circulation of a recording of the alleged incident on social media. The state also urged the court to consider the gruesome manner in which the murder was committed.

‘The suspect had another pending case of possession of a firearm and ammunition’

Ngubane was arrested on 12 September for the murder of North West businessman, Ben Gumbi (49). His arrest was initiated while attending another court in which he faces charges of armed robbery and was granted R3,000 bail. Mamothame said the suspect had another case against him, of possession of a firearm and ammunition, in Alberton, where he was granted R1,000 bail.

“Police reports revealed that Gumbi was gunned down by two me outside a restaurant in the Rustenburg CBD on 23 August. The suspects fled the scene in a blue Volkswagen Polo, which was found a few minutes after the incident, abandoned on the corner of Helen Joseph and Lourie Streets. 

“The car was confirmed to have been stolen and the number plates that were on the car were false.” 

Investigations continue to arrest other suspects who are on the run.

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