The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced that a third suspect linked to the murder of a woman in Ekurhuleni has been released from custody. The suspect, who remains unidentified, could not be charged due to insufficient evidence. This development has forced police to go back to the drawing board as they continue their investigation into the string of murders in Ekurhuleni. Deputy National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikidi confirmed that the suspect's release was due to lack of evidence.
The murder case involves the death of Jabulile Ntimba, whose body was found in Boksburg last Thursday. Her death marks the ninth woman to be killed in the Ekurhuleni murders. Police have made some progress in the case, with two women, Tsakane Msithini and Fortunate Masilela, arrested and charged in connection with the murder. The two suspects are currently behind bars and are expected to launch a Schedule 6 bail application on October 1.
According to SAPS, the investigation into the Ekurhuleni murders is ongoing, with detectives working to gather more evidence. The police are exploring possible links between the various murder cases, with the probe extending beyond the East Rand. While the release of the third suspect may seem like a setback, police are optimistic that they will eventually crack the case. Mosikidi assured that all avenues are being explored to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The two accused women, Msithini and Masilela, will have to convince the court that exceptional circumstances exist before they can be released on bail. Under the Criminal Procedure Act, the court will consider their bail application based on specific criteria. If granted bail, the two women will be required to comply with certain conditions until the trial.
The Ekurhuleni murders have raised concerns about the safety of women in the area. The SAPS has urged the public to provide any information that may assist in the investigation. The police are working to identify the motive behind the killings and to apprehend all suspects involved. The community has been called upon to cooperate with the police and provide any relevant information.
The investigation into the Ekurhuleni murders is one of two cases where police claim to have made a breakthrough. While details of the other case are scarce, Mosikidi confirmed that progress has been made. The SAPS is working to link the various murder cases and to identify any possible patterns or connections.
The release of the third suspect has not deterred police from pursuing the case. According to Mosikidi, the SAPS will continue to gather evidence and explore all leads. The police are committed to solving the case and bringing the perpetrators to justice. The case is ongoing, with further developments expected in the coming days.
Key points
- The third suspect was released due to insufficient evidence.
- Two women remain in custody, charged in connection with the murder.
- The investigation into the Ekurhuleni murders is ongoing, with police exploring possible links between the cases.
