Man accused of Sisonke Mbolekwa's murder claims his actions justified when he fired on protesting WSU students
Manelisi Mampane, a residence manager at the institution, is facing a slew of charges in the case, including murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm with intent to commit a crime.
A protest at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU). Picture: Nhlanhla Mabaso/EWN
MTHATHA - The man accused of murdering Walter Sisulu University (WSU) student Sisonke Mbolekwa said his actions were justified when he opened fire during a student protest on campus.
Manelisi Mampane, a residence manager at the institution, is facing a slew of charges in the case, including murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of an unlicensed firearm with intent to commit a crime.
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Mampane took the stand in the Mthatha Magistrates Court while applying for bail in the matter on Tuesday.
He said he opened fire because he wanted to warn the group of protesters who attempted to forcibly enter his place of residence on campus.
But the victim’s family spokesperson, Ncedo Kolanisi, said Mampane was in no way endangered by the protesters.
"At the crime scene, even when it was cleared and we were shown, even after everything was collected, there was no sign of force of entry, there was no one that kicked the door because even the windows were not broken. It means that those people that went to him were very much peaceful."
The matter returns to court on Wednesday.