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MBABANE - An aspiring lawyer-cum businessman and his employee have appeared in court accused of housebreaking with intent to steal and theft.
Michael Mlandvo Tsabedze (45) of Ntambandze, who operates a construction company made his appearance alongside Thobani Lunga Mdluli (27) before Magistrate Xolile Nxumalo charged with theft.
They are accused of having broken into the house of Leanard Sithole and stole money in cash amounting to E9 000, bed, blankets, toolbox, grinders, driller, curtains, lasher bush knife, fish tape and various clothes among other items totalling to E15 000.
The Crown applied for a trial date while the duo remains in custody until July 17, 2026. The Crown indicated that it was not opposed to bail should the duo apply for it.
Through their Lawyer Ncobile Moringani, the duo applied that they be released on bail. Tsabedze submitted that he is self-employed and operating a construction company. He submitted that his continued incarceration might have negative impact on his business. Tsabedze told the court that he has a family rooted in Eswatini and, therefore, there is no way he could evade trial. He also undertook to abide by all conditions attached if released on bail.
His co-accused submitted that he was employed by Tsabedze at the construction company. He stated that his continued incarceration could negatively affect his children who are solely dependent on him.
The duo pleaded with the court to consider fixing the bail at a reasonable amount so that they could afford to pay.
Magistrate Nxumalo granted the duo bail fixed at E5 000 each, on condition they do not interfere with the Crown witnesses while out on bail. Nxumalo warned the duo against committing a similar offence. They were also warned to attend all remands and hearings whenever ordered to do so.
They were also remanded in custody until July 17, 2026, pending trial on August 24, 2026.
Michael Mlandvo Tsabedze and Thobani Lunga Mdluli made their initial appearance before Magistrate Xolile Nxumalo. (Pic: Sibusiso Shange)