Advocate Thulani Mngomezulu, a defense lawyer representing two of the individuals accused in the murder of former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa, reportedly faces serious charges including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, contravention of a protection order, and resisting arrest. The charges stem from a domestic dispute with his wife in November 2022. Despite his wife’s attempt to withdraw the charges, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) refused, alleging that Mngomezulu had purchased petrol with the intention of burning down his house while his wife and children were inside.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed the case, stating that charges included defying a protection order, assault by threats, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and resisting arrest. Despite Mngomezulu’s attempts to contest the charges, the NPA persisted to protect the family, leading to a December 2023 judgment from the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria. The court ordered consultations between Mngomezulu and the NPA, with a subsequent memorandum determining whether prosecution would continue or cease.
Reportedly, these consultations are anticipated to occur by the end of February. Simultaneously, the case is ongoing in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court. Mngomezulu’s role as a defense attorney extends to representing Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya and Bongani Ntanzi, and currently involves a trial-within-a-trial to assess the admissibility of alleged confessions made by the accused parties.
Senzo Meyiwa was tragically killed on October 26, 2014, while visiting his girlfriend Kelly Khumalo. The five men standing trial for his murder are Sibiya, Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke Maphisa, and Fisokuhle Nkani Ntuli. The case is set to continue, with the unfolding legal proceedings bringing attention to the complexities surrounding both the Meyiwa murder trial and the charges against Mngomezulu himself.
