NPA SUCCESSFULLY OPPOSES BAIL FOR MAKHANDA CORRECTIONAL OFFICIAL CHARGED WITH CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDER 

17 February 2026 

NPA SUCCESSFULLY OPPOSES BAIL FOR MAKHANDA CORRECTIONAL OFFICIAL CHARGED WITH CONSPIRACY TO COMMIT MURDER 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed the bail application of Viwe Stemela (47), a correctional services official based in Makhanda, who is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder involving managers at the correctional facility where he works. Stemela appeared before the Makhanda Magistrate’s Court, which ruled that it was not in the interests of justice to grant him bail. 

State Prosecutor Sicelo Magcina led evidence from the investigating officer, highlighting the seriousness of the allegations and the strength of the State’s case. The prosecution argued that the accused, by virtue of his position of authority, is familiar with the identities of potential State witnesses, creating a significant risk of interference if released. 

The State further submitted that any bail conditions would be insufficient to mitigate this risk, given the accused’s access and influence within the correctional environment. The prosecution also emphasised that the gravity of the offence and the circumstances of the matter warranted his continued detention. 

The court accepted the State’s arguments and denied bail. The accused was arrested following an investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI/Hawks). 

The matter has been postponed to 16 March 2026 for further investigation. 

The NPA welcomes the court’s decision and reiterates its commitment to ensuring that serious offences, particularly those involving threats to life and abuse of positions of trust, are addressed decisively in the interests of justice. 

Issued by: 

Luxolo Tyali 

NPA Regional Spokesperson 

Eastern Cape Division 

Tel: 047 501 2630 

Cell: 073 555 9292 

Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za 

Enquiries: nmakupula@npa.gov.za / 068 268 2473