Two Mpumalanga government officials accused of the premeditated murder of a provincial forensic investigator have been granted bail of R80,000 each by the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court despite the State’s opposition.
Emmanuel Neverdie Mkhabela, 47, a protocol manager attached to the Office of the Premier in Mpumalanga, and Eckson Jabulani Mkhonto, 53, a vetting officer in the same office, face charges of premeditated murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The charges relate to the killing of Mabidi Mashaba, a forensic investigator employed by the Mpumalanga Provincial Government.
In a statement released by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident occurred on September 7, 2023, when Mashaba was travelling from Mpumalanga to his home in Pretoria.
“While driving along Hardy Muller Circle in Villieria, Pretoria, a vehicle allegedly occupied by the two accused pulled alongside the deceased’s vehicle, and multiple shots were fired before the suspects fled the scene.
“Following the shooting, the deceased reportedly managed to stop his vehicle and contacted his supervisor, informing them that the two accused had shot at him. He was later found by security personnel in the area and transported to the hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries,” said the NPA.
Security personnel later found the wounded investigator and he was transported to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Following what prosecutors described as extensive police investigations, Mkhonto was arrested at a guesthouse in Mpumalanga, while Mkhabela handed himself over to police at the Villieria Police Station.
During the bail application, the State opposed the release of both men, arguing that they face serious Schedule 6 offences and that the alleged murder was premeditated.
Prosecutor Chris Maruma told the court there was a risk that the accused could interfere with State witnesses because they were known to them.
The State also argued that Mkhonto was allegedly in possession of two identity documents, while Mkhabela was considered a potential flight risk because he regularly travels outside South Africa.
Despite these submissions, the court ruled that it was in the interests of justice to grant both accused bail of R80,000 each.
As part of their bail conditions, Mkhabela and Mkhonto have been ordered not to directly or indirectly contact any State witnesses.
The NPA said the matter will now proceed through the High Court process as prosecutors prepare to present their case against the two accused, who remain charged with premeditated murder and firearm-related offences.
The case has been postponed to August 6, 2026, when it is expected to be transferred to the High Court for a trial date.
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Yasmine Jacobs
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