NPA SUCCESSFULLY OPPOSES BAIL IN WALMER MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER

17 June 2025

NPA SUCCESSFULLY OPPOSES BAIL IN WALMER MOTHER-DAUGHTER MURDER

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed bail for Nceba Maji (44), who is facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder, murder, and attempted murder following a deadly shooting at a home in Walmer Location, Gqeberha, on 01 May 2025. Maji is allegedly accused of orchestrating a planned attack that resulted in the deaths of Lusanda Thunywashe (40) and her daughter Hailie-Jade Coboza (19). Two co-accused, Sibulele Mzilikazi (28) and Siyabonga Ntswahlana (35), abandoned their bail applications.

During the bail hearing, the State, represented by District Court Prosecutor Asavela Dweba, argued that the attack was premeditated and linked to a dispute in the taxi industry. The accused is alleged to have conspired with hired hitmen to murder a rival taxi operator, but the plan resulted in the deaths of the rival’s wife and daughter instead. Dweba submitted that Maji poses a flight risk due to the serious nature of the charges and the potential for a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

Furthermore, Dweba maintained that the case against Maji is strong, supported by compelling evidence including forensic findings, witness statements, video footage, a confession, circumstantial evidence, and physical items recovered during the investigation. The State also argued that releasing the accused on bail would not be in the interest of justice and would pose a risk to public safety and potential witnesses.

The matter has been postponed to 30 July 2025, where he is expected to appear alongside his co-accused.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the court’s decision to deny bail to the accused in the Walmer mother-and-daughter double murder case. This successful opposition reinforces the NPA’s unwavering commitment to prioritising the safety of vulnerable victims and upholding the rule of law in cases involving gender-based violence and femicide. Keeping the accused in custody reflects the seriousness of the charges and ensures that justice continues to take its course without compromise.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali
Regional Spokesperson – Eastern Cape Division
National Prosecuting Authority
047 501 2630
ltyali@npa.gov.za
Enquiries:
nmakupula@npa.gov.za | 068 268 2473