THOHOYANDOU - Mrs Anna Lukoto (52), a businesswoman, who was arrested in connection with the death of prospering businessman, Mr Ntakadzeni Makhuvha (28), was granted R10 000 bail in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court last week.

Mr Makhuvha was shot and killed at his house in Sibasa on August 26 last year.

Mrs Lukoto, Eric Mathelemusa of Makwarela and Thanyani Makhado of Phiphidi were arrested two weeks ago in connection with the case. Two other suspects, Patrick Singo and Samuel Munyai, are still in custody.

The arrest of Lukoto and the other suspects was regarded as a breakthrough, as the communities were baffled about Makhuvha’s death. The bail hearing took place amidst large public interest, as the court was packed and other members of public were queuing in the passages.

Police Superintendent Mpfare Nengwekhulu from the Provincial Serious Crime Unit in Polokwane told the court that, should the three be given bail, they will possibly threaten the witnesses. According to Nengekhulu, the case needs more time for investigation. He further said his sources suggested to him that the killing of Mr Makhuvha was an organized crime, planned by the people.

He added that the community will feel unhappy and lose trust in the Justice Department if the suspects were granted bail.

Mathelemusa has a pending case of motor vehicle theft committed in Edenville, while Makhado has two pending cases of robbery, committed along the Punda Maria Road.

Magistrate William Smit said there is no concrete evidence that should disallow them from granting bail. Lukoto was granted a bail of R10 000, Eric Mathelemusa R5 000 and Thanyani Makhado is out on R4 000 bail.

The accused were ordered to report to the Thohoyandoun police station every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning. They were also ordered not to threaten the witnesses. They are not allowed to go outside the Thohoyandou magistarial district without informing the Thohoyandou Police Station.