NELSPRUIT: An awaiting trial prisoner, Gugu Msiza aged 32, who allegedly attacked and killed a senior police officer in the holding cells of the KwaMhlanga Police Station, appeared at the KwaMhlanga Magistrates’ Court today facing a charge of murder and was remanded in custody until Monday, 11 September 2017, for legal aid representation as well as bail application.
The alleged attack occurred on Saturday, 02 September 2017, when Lieutenant Colonel Sibongile Vilakazi aged 48, as well as another colleague visited the cells with an intention to perform normal duties. According to information at police disposal, Vilakazi walked into the cells after calling Msiza but there was no response. It is alleged that Vilakazi then went inside the cell to investigate, however the suspect allegedly jumped and grabbed Vilakazi causing her head injuries.
The victim managed to walk on her own to the kitchen cells where she collapsed shortly thereafter. The members summoned an ambulance but unfortunately she was certified dead at the scene.
Msiza has a string of other charges including assault on a police officer, two counts of malicious damage to property, resisting arrest that she is currently facing and for which she will appear at the same court on Thursday, 07 September 2017.
The Provincial Commissioner of the police in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma conveyed his condolences to the family, close friends and colleagues of Vilakazi.