Sibongile Dlamini Released on Bail After Husband’s Murder

Public Outrage as Accused Wife Granted Bail
There was outrage at the Springs Magistrate’s Court when Sibongile Dlamini, accused of hiring hitmen to murder her husband, was granted bail. Many attendees expressed their anger, with some storming out of the courtroom in frustration.

Banele Skosana’s family, especially his brother Lunga Skosana, voiced their disappointment over the court’s decision.

“We are extremely disappointed, but there is nothing we can do. The law is taking its course, but we believe the police have worked hard and have a strong case against the accused. We will keep coming here as a family because we want to see justice for Banele.”

Court’s Decision and Bail Justification
Magistrate Pravina Lazarus granted Dlamini bail of R10,000, citing “exceptional circumstances.” Dlamini, 42, argued that she needed to care for her 15-year-old child, who is physically and mentally disabled.

However, the court found that while Dlamini was not the child’s primary caregiver—his grandmother played that role—her presence was still deemed necessary for the child’s well-being.

“This court finds that exceptional circumstances have been shown and it is in the best interest of the child and justice to grant the applicant bail,” said Magistrate Lazarus.

Case Details and Pending Trial
Dlamini and co-accused Ntliziyozabantu Magwanyana are charged with premeditated murder and conspiracy to commit murder. They are accused of orchestrating the fatal shooting of Banele Skosana, a 33-year-old metro police officer, on February 7. Skosana was approached by two men who shot him, leading to his immediate death at the scene.

Magwanyana, the alleged gunman, abandoned his bail application due to another pending case in Soweto. Meanwhile, a third suspect remains at large, and authorities are yet to conduct an identity parade.

Dlamini was arrested on February 14, just hours before her husband’s funeral. Due to the ongoing investigation, the court has prohibited the media from publishing images of the accused.

The case continues as the prosecution gathers further evidence, with Skosana’s family determined to seek justice for their loved one.