AMATHOLE – A 26-year-old suspect appeared in the Butterworth Magistrate’s Court yesterday, 14 June 2023 for the alleged murder of his 90-year-old grandmother on 09 June 2023 in Kobodi A/A Zisoyini location near Butterworth.

It is alleged that on the mentioned date at about 18:00, community members noticed the house burning and rallied together to douse the flames. The burnt body of Nongenile Sobetwa was found on a chair behind the door. An inquest docket was opened.

On 10 June 2023, the community found the deceased grandson and severely assaulted him. They alleged that he was responsible for setting the house alight. He lived with his grandmother. He was detained for questioning.

On Tuesday, 13 June 2023, SAPS Kei Bridge detectives charged him for murder.

Thulani Sobetwa is remanded in custody and his next court appearance is on 22 June 2023 for a formal bail application. .

Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene expressed her shock at such the gruesome attack on the defenceless elderly woman. ’The phenomenon of elder abuse is a growing social problem, and we all need to play a major role in the protection of the vulnerable. Such brutal attacks on the aged cannot be condoned and communities need to look out for the elderly and to report to police any neglect or abuse suffered by them. We will work closely with the NPA to ensure a successful prosecution,’ added Lt Gen Mene.

Source: South African Police Service