The unfolding tragedy surrounding Skeem Saam actress Amanda Manku has taken a dark turn as her father, William Manku, has been denied bail in the double murder case. The court has decided to postpone the proceedings to 2 May, allowing additional time for further investigation.
Details of the Case
William Manku (53), along with his lover Nonhlanhla Ngubo and alleged hitman David Khoza, are facing charges in connection with the murder of Manku’s wife and mother-in-law.
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William Manku’s Bail Application Denied
During his appearance at the Magatle Magistrates Court, Manku was denied bail. A police officer himself, Manku had confessed to orchestrating a hit on his mother-in-law, Letty Maphuthuma (70), on 4 May 2021. Shockingly, the hitman also took the life of his wife, Gladys Manku (45), out of fear that she would expose the crime to the community.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi revealed in an affidavit that Manku expressed his desire to be released on bail to resign from his position as a police officer at Magatle Police Station.
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Legal Developments
On the day of the tragic incident, the 70-year-old mother and her 45-year-old daughter were fatally shot by unknown suspects while fetching water at a local tap. Amanda’s grandmother, who was also present, survived with injuries. Following the murders, the police initiated an investigation that led to the identification of the suspects and subsequent arrests.
Dzangi stated that firearms confiscated during the arrests would undergo ballistic testing. Additionally, the motor vehicle used in the crimes and a phone belonging to Amanda’s mother were seized as evidence.
Legal Maneuvers
Interestingly, charges against Manku’s girlfriend, police Sergeant Ngubo, were withdrawn last week. Meanwhile, one of the alleged hired men for the murder abandoned his bail application, adding further complexity to the case.
