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SPECIAL REPORT | FOUR ACCUSED REMAIN IN CUSTODY AS MAKOLA MURDER CASE RETURNS TO DELMAS COURT




Mamelodi News | Zithobeni / Delmas


The investigation into the alleged kidnapping and murder of EFF member Aaron Makola, 51, has taken another unexpected turn after the deceased's sister was reportedly released before the latest court appearance.


The sister was among those initially arrested in connection with the investigation and was previously named alongside Dimakatso Chiloane and Solly Pitoti Sibeko.


However, she was released before the accused appeared briefly before the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 13 August 2026.


The exact date and circumstances surrounding her release remain unclear.


Mamelodi News was unable to establish whether she was formally cleared of any alleged wrongdoing, whether the charges against her were withdrawn, or whether she was released pending further investigation.


She has also reportedly been described as Solly Pitoti Sibeko’s girlfriend, although this detail has not been independently confirmed by Mamelodi News.




The latest information means that four accused remain in custody.


They include Dimakatso Chiloane and Solly Pitoti Sibeko, together with the traditional healer and his wife, who were reportedly rearrested after previously being released.


The traditional healer has been identified as France, although Mamelodi News has not yet confirmed his surname.


All four remain in custody.


The four accused appeared briefly before the Delmas Magistrate’s Court on 13 August 2026.


The matter was postponed to 21 August 2026 to allow for further investigation.


During proceedings, the defence attorney reportedly told the court that he had not been given an opportunity to properly read the docket and was therefore not adequately prepared.


The development reportedly frustrated the magistrate, with the matter subsequently postponed.


Meanwhile, a group of community members and civil organisations reportedly submitted a petition calling on the court not to grant bail to the accused.


The group allegedly believes that the accused could pose a danger to society if released.


Any future bail decision, however, remains a matter for the court.



Makola, a resident of Zithobeni in Tshwane Region 7, was reported missing on 10 July 2026.


His vehicle was reportedly discovered abandoned the following day.


After weeks of investigation, the Gauteng Political Killings Task Team discovered his body in thick bush near Delmas on 30 July 2026.


Preliminary information indicated that Makola had been shot before his body was dumped.


The motive behind the alleged killing has not yet been publicly established.


As the investigation continues, the circumstances surrounding the sister's release remain an unanswered question.


The accused remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.


Why was Aaron Makola’s sister released before the latest court appearance, and was she cleared of any wrongdoing, or does she remain part of the ongoing investigation?


Mamelodi News will continue following the case as more information becomes available.

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