Residents of Saselani and nearby villages packed the Mhala Magistrate Court in Thulamahashe on Monday, demanding that murder‑accused businessman Sidwell Khoza – known locally as “Tshep Tshep” – be denied bail. Pictures credits: Bushbuckridge TV (Supplied)
By Duncan Mnisi
Bushbuckridge – Residents of Saselani and Buyisonto gathered in large numbers outside the Mhala Magistrate’s Court on Monday, chanting and holding placards as they protested against the potential release of Sidwell Khoza — a well-known local businessman who owns a tavern, bottle store, mortuary and taxi business in Buyisonto.
Khoza, widely known as “Tshep Tshep,” is facing two counts of murder linked to the deaths of Hlamariso Sambo (35) and Kenneth Nkuna (34). The pair were allegedly killed during a dispute over a Road Accident Fund (RAF) payout.
During Monday’s proceedings, the presiding magistrate unexpectedly asked to be recused from the case. No public explanation was provided, and the matter was postponed to 27 November, leaving the community confused and frustrated.
Speaking on behalf of the Sambo family, Fikile Phiri said the repeated delays have caused immense distress.
“We will never be fulfilled until we get justice for Hlamariso and Kenneth. We come to the magistrate twice a week, yet the court keeps postponing,” she said. “We feel confused about how things are handled. We feel unimportant, and we are losing money coming back and forth while the case goes nowhere.”
Another resident, who asked not to be named, said the parents of both victims are “in pain and ill” as they wait for closure.
“They live on medication and still haven’t found justice. The judge said he’s stepping out of the case without explaining why. A new magistrate is expected at the next appearance.”
The alleged motive — a conflict over RAF compensation owed to the deceased — has intensified public anger. Many residents fear that granting Khoza bail could endanger the community.
The next court appearance on 27 November is expected to determine whether the magistrate’s recusal will be approved and how the bail application will proceed.
