Durban Court Grants Bail To Serial Murder Suspect By Mistake

The Durban Magistrate’s Court mistakenly granted a serial murder suspect bail. The suspect, Vukani Khumalo, reportedly exploited a legal loophole by switching identities with another individual scheduled to appear for a lesser offence.

The dramatic mix-up unfolded on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, and quickly led to a manhunt to recapture Khumalo. He was apprehended later that same day and is now facing additional charges.

The Plot Behind the Mistaken Bail

Khumalo, who has been accused of at least eight murders successfully duped officials by posing as Khulekani, another individual sharing the same surname but unrelated to him. Khulekani was scheduled to appear in court on charges of motor vehicle theft.

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Durban Court mistakenly grants bail to serial murder suspect-mage Source@X

During the proceedings, Khumalo represented himself as the accused in the theft case, which led the court to grant him bail of R3,000. His mother paid the bail, resulting in his release. However, the error became apparent when Khulekani later raised the alarm, prompting an investigation that revealed the deception.

The Greenwood Park police immediately launched a search operation, tracking Khumalo to a hideout in KwaMashu. He was arrested later that day, bringing an end to his brief period of freedom. Reports indicate that Khumalo will now face additional charges for escaping lawful custody, compounding the already severe allegations against him.

This incident has raised serious concerns about procedural lapses within the judicial system, prompting calls for tighter controls and verification processes to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

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Related Case: Swartruggens Jail Escapees

In a separate a recapture of two escapees from the Swartruggens Correctional Facility took place. On December 8, 2024, four detainees managed to break out by forcing their way through the roof of their cell. A manhunt led to the re-arrest of two of the fugitives, with one being apprehended while attempting to hitchhike along the N4 at Swartruggens Plaza.

The captured escapees have since appeared in the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court to face charges related to their escape.

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