By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Two sisters, Lindiwe Machaka (39), and Zanele Machaka (37), from Itireleng an informal settlement near Laudium have appeared at the Atteridgeville Magistrates’ Court.
They are facing 5 counts of culpable homicide, for the death of 5 children aged 1,2,4,5 and 6.
They are also facing a charge of child neglect. Lindiwe is the grandmother to two of the children, ages 1 and 2.
While Zanele is a mother to the rest of the 3 children. It is alleged that on the evening of 27 August 2023, the two women locked 5 children inside their shack, and went to a nearby tavern.
“It is alleged that while the two were still out, the shack caught fire and all the children burnt and died on the scene. The two women were arrested at the tavern the same day and are remanded in custody.
“During their brief appearance, the two asked to be released on an R500 bail, however, the magistrate told the court that she intended to grant them an R5000 bail each due to the seriousness of the office. However, the two through their legal representative told the court they would be unable to pay the amount,” said Lumka Mahanjana, NPA spokesperson.
The matter was then postponed to 15 September 2023, for a report from the Department of Correctional Services to check if the two sisters are suitable to be placed under correctional supervision after bail is granted.
Pic supplied.
