Brits – The two elderly men who were remanded in custody on suspicion of beating to death another senior citizen at the old age home where they resided have both died.
Seventy-five-year-old Jeremiah Mmatli and 92-year-old Daniel Madumo were arrested in Jericho Village outside Brits for the alleged murder of 80-year-old Godfrey Thema Motsepe.
Earlier this month the accused appeared in the Brits Magistrate’s Court in North West for the alleged murder of an 80-year-old man. They were both remanded in custody.
However, on Tuesday the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) said both accused have succumbed to illness.
In a terse statement, the department said: “It can confirm the death of 92-year-old, Daniel Madumo.
“He was charged together with the late Jeremia Mmatli for a case of murder at an old age home in North West.
“They were both admitted on 3 June 2024 at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.
“Daniel Madumo had to be transferred to an outside hospital on 22 June 2024 due to health complications and sadly passed away on 24 June 2024.
“Whereas, Jeremia Mmatli departed on 20 June 2024.”
The department said with both accused now deceased, the court shall provide direction on what is to happen in the court case.
Allegations are that the accused fatally assaulted the victim after a fight ensued between them and the victim at the old-age home, where they resided.
Commenting on the fatal beating, police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Funani said: “According to information, the victim was emerging from the bathroom when he met with the suspects who were on their way to the bathroom.
“The victim allegedly bumped one of the suspects who hit the former with his crutches.
“The suspect’s companion apparently joined his friend in assaulting the victim.
“The victim, who sustained head injuries, was transported to hospital by ambulance and was certified dead on arrival.”
