Henry Mamothame, NPA regional spokesperson for the North West Division, said the group faces numerous charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and illicit firearm possession.

“The state has provided evidence of the accused conspiring, while defence lawyers have cross-examined witnesses. More witnesses will be called when proceedings continue in September. Mashimbi initially recruited two individuals who declined and tipped off the police. Subsequently, meetings to plan Thomas Mashimbi's murder were orchestrated with Khumalo and the rest of the accused,” he said.

Furthermore, the court case involving the murder plot by Gertrude Mashimbi is progressing, with significant evidence surfacing from a cellphone network expert indicating communication links between all accused persons. The defence has completed its cross-examination. More witnesses, including the investigating officer, are expected to testify in September.

From 7 to 24 January 2018, Mashimbi allegedly incited two individuals to stage a robbery at her marital home. However, they reported her proposition to the police. Mashimbi later approached Khumalo and three other individuals to further plot the murder.

Gertrude and two children were present but unharmed.

“Evidence shows planned meetings took place from 7 to 24 February 2018. On 21 February, access to her home was supposedly provided by Mashimbi, who left gates and a kitchen door ajar. Records also suggest that she secured a protection order following allegations of abuse by her husband in November 2017,” he further added.

On 21 February 2018, Maluleka, Malope, and Chauke reportedly invaded a home, shot the resident, and fled with two phones, a TV, and around R20 000.

Gertrude and two children were present but unharmed. The accused were apprehended between 18 and 19 September 2019 and will remain in police custody until the case is concluded.

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