The trial of seven suspects, four of whom are minors, who are being accused of vandalizing graves continues today (Friday) in the Musina Magistrate’s Court.

The adult suspects, Willem Snyder (21), Hermanus Mostert (24) and Koos Venter (26) were each granted R2 000 bail, while the four minors were released into the custody of their parents when they briefly appeared at Musina Magistrate’s Court last week.

The accused were arrested after 31 graves were vandalized at Musina cemetery. The graves included the ones for former mayor David Phologa, former principal of Musina High School Thomas Makhubela and former Orlando Pirates Star Lesley Manyathela. A municipal worker who was running errands at the graveyard discovered the vandalism and informed the police, who acted swiftly and arrested the suspects.

Shortly after the suspects were released last week, police discovered that a further 51 graves had been vandalized at the old graveyard adjacent to the Messina Golf Club. The graveyard was closed many years ago.

Mr Isaac Phologa, father of former mayor David Phologa, could not believe his eyes when he visited the vandalised grave of his son. With tears running down his face, he condemned the evil deed and said he would not rest until the culprits were punished. “I have never been hurt and disappointed like this in my life. I cannot understand why these heartless people could have done this to the grave of my beloved son. I now console myself with the fact that suspects have been already arrested and I have no doubt that the law will take its course.”

Mayor Caroline Mahasela also criticised the vandalism of the graves and added that the municipality would work tirelessly with the police to make sure that justice prevailed. “We are really saddened by what happened and we also urge our communities to remain calm because the law enforcement agencies are playing their part.”