Two men, aged 75 and 92, were remanded in custody when they appeared before the Brits Magistrate’s Court facing charges of murder, North West police said.
The slain victim was an 80-year-old man, according to North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani.
“Jeremiah Mmatli, 75, and Daniel Madumo, 92, appeared before Brits Magistrate’s Court (on Friday) for bail application after the murder of 80-year-old Godfrey Thema Motsepe,” said Funani.
“Their case was postponed until Friday, June 14, for continuation of bail application.”
Last week, IOL reported that the two alleged killers had been arrested in Jericho village outside Brits.
“Reports suggest that the victim and the suspects stayed at an old-age home. A fight allegedly ensued between the suspects and the victim at about 4am on Thursday, May 30,” said Funani at the time.
“According to information, the victim was coming from the bathroom, when he met with the suspects who were on their way to the bathroom. The victim allegedly bumped one of the suspects, who hit the former with his crutches.”
After the 80-year-old man was hit with crutches, the 75-year-old and the 92-year-old friends alleged joined hands in assaulting the outnumbered victim.
“The owner of the old age home was notified and the police were summoned. The victim who sustained head injuries was transported to hospital by an ambulance, but was certified dead on arrival. The two suspects were later arrested for murder,” said Funani.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner of police in North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena has expressed “shock” over the incident and conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased octogenarian.
IOL