Emalahleni – Double murder accused Mpumelelo Hill (35) made his second appearance in the Emalahleni Magistrate Court on 7 August 2025, for what was meant to be his bail application.
Hill was initially charged with two counts of attempted murder following his first appearance last week on 29 July. At the time, both victims– Mbali Hill and Nompumelelo Gamede– were in critical condition, fighting for their lives in hospital.
However, the charges have since been changed to murder after the deaths.
Mbali Hill, the accused’s younger sister, succumbed to her injuries on 01 August, followed two days later by Gamede on 03 August. Both women suffered severe burns and were unable to recover despite medical intervention.
Hill’s legal representative formally requested that the bail application be withdrawn due to the change in charges. The presiding judge granted the request and confirmed that Hill would remain in custody until his next court date on 09 October.
“I’m very disappointed, as the family, we wish the case would proceed without any delays. We ask that the law must not favour the criminals but rather favour the victims. And ensure that Mpumelelo is charged with murder,” said Nompumelelo Gamede’s grandmother, Eunice Mdingwane.
Hill’s father, Samuel Menzelwa, voiced similar concerns, “What happened doesn’t sit well with us. It has left us all in a very bad space as a family, and we would like to see justice prevail.”
Mbali and Gamede’s deaths have sparked shock and outrage across the province. Earlier in the week Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Jackie Macie visited the bereaved families.
MEC Macie pledged the provincial government’s full support in seeking justice. “Our hearts are with the Hill and Gamede families. This is an unimaginable loss,” said Macie. “We will do everything in our power to support you and to strengthen safety measures in our communities.”
Macie also emphasised the importance of tackling gender-based violence and domestic abuse, calling on community members, leaders and organisations to work together to prevent such devastating incidents.
MEC also offered financial assistance to both families to help ease the burden of funeral arrangements and emotional recovery.
The joint funeral for Mbali and Gamede will take place on Saturday, 09 August.
