By Kopano Dibakwane
The Evander Magistrate’s Court has denied bail against Hermanus De Laray(52) and William Underhay(40), who were arrested on 18 February 2024 following their alleged involvement in the disappearance of two victims, identified as Sthembiso Mbuyiseni Mnikathi(30) and Buhlebekhaya Ximba(30).
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, reported that the two victims went missing at a certain farm near Leslie, on 19 May 2023.
“ It is said that a group of five men went hunting at a certain farm during the night of the said date. The five men were somehow spotted inside the farm and shots were allegedly fired. Three(men) managed to escape out of the farm unharmed, meanwhile the other two( Mnikathi and Ximba) were never seen by their fellows,” said Mdhluli.
He said that an enquiry for two missing persons was opened for investigation, which led to police identifying certain individuals that may assist with clues to solving the case.
“ It then came to light that De Laray and Underhay were somehow entangled in a shooting of the two missing victims, who could have possibly died. Police are of the view that the suspects could have disposed of their bodies somewhere else, far from the farm.
“ The two suspects are facing serious charges including murder and defeating the ends of justice. More charges could possibly be added against them as investigation continues,” said Mdhluli.
According to Mdhluli, Hermanus(farm owner) and Underway(farm manager) have so far made two unsuccessful bids for bail on 1 and 7 February 2024.
Mpumalanga Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt-General Semakaleng Manamela, said that a team which comprises of investigators and experts, has made some progress in the case.
“ We are definitely opposing bail and we hope that justice will be served for the victims,”
The case was.postponed to 29 March 2024 for further investigation and the two suspects will remain in custody.
