Mbabane – Three community police officers from Sidvwashini have been remanded in custody after appearing before Principal Magistrate Fikile Nhlabatsi at the Mbabane Magistrate’s Court in connection with the alleged killing of a 40-year-old Mahwalala man.
Solomon Sidumo Dladla (48), Bhekithemba Lewis Madlazi (42) and Sibusiso Somfana Hlophe (46) appeared in court, where they faced a murder charge.
The three are accused of causing the death of Sifiso Matsebula on July 26, 2026, at Sidvwashini in the Hhohho Region.
According to the charge sheet, the accused allegedly acted together and in furtherance of a common purpose when they unlawfully and intentionally killed Matsebula by assaulting him.
Matsebula, who was from Mahwalala, is alleged to have been assaulted at Makholokholo in Mbabane after he was suspected of theft. He later died as a result of injuries allegedly sustained during the incident.
During the proceedings, Principal Magistrate Nhlabatsi explained to the accused their right to legal representation and asked whether they intended to conduct their own defence or engage lawyers.
All three informed the court that they would be represented by legal practitioners.
The magistrate did not ask the accused to plead as murder is an offence that falls under the jurisdiction of the High Court.
The matter was postponed to August 7, 2026, for transfer to the High Court, while the accused were remanded in custody until then.
Principal Magistrate Nhlabatsi advised the accused that any application for bail would have to be brought before the High Court.
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