4 men charged with killing MK Party supporters claim self-defence

JOHANNESBURG - The four men charged with the murders of two uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party supporters claim they acted in self-defence when they fired shots at the victims.

Sithembile Magasela, Jackson Mphahlele, Mduduzi Ranyao and Sipho Xaba appeared at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court for a formal bail application on Tuesday.

READ: Friends, families of MK duo killed in Katlehong believe it was politically motivated

They are accused of shooting Xolani Mkhwanazi and Bongani Nzimande during a physical altercation in Katlehong last month.

According to the investigating officer’s written statement, which was presented in court, the altercation between the victims and the accused was a result of road rage.

But MK Party supporter Castro Ntanda who attended the proceedings is adamant that Mkhwanazi and Nzimande were targeted for merely being members of the organisation.

"They can't claim they acted in self-defence when they continued shooting after the victims surrendered. What happened on that day is truly traumatic."

While the accused have assured they’re not a flight risk - the State has opposed their release on bail.

Judgement is expected to be handed down on Wednesday morning.