The case against three suspects accused of the mass murder of a Newark family on KwaZulu-Natal’s north coast did not proceed as expected on Friday, with the accused now set to appear in court early next week.
The suspects were due to make their first appearance at the KwaDukuza Magistrates' Court, but the matter was postponed amid initial confusion over whether proceedings would go ahead.
Police confirmed that the three men, arrested on Wednesday, are expected back in court on Tuesday.
They are accused of kidnapping seven members of the Monswamy family from their Newark home on Tuesday before taking them to Melmoth, where they were killed. The bodies were discovered the following day.
The victims have been identified as Allen Monswamy, his wife Sandy, their children Kraidon and Shamaria, as well as relatives Gonosagren Padayachee, Mooniamma Padayachee and Mariama Happanah.
Authorities said the suspects allegedly led investigators to the location of the bodies after their arrest. One of the accused is believed to have been employed by the family.
In the wake of the delay, the Monswamy home remained filled with grieving relatives, many still struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. Family members gathered quietly, some in tears, while others sat in stunned silence.
Relative Vimalessan Pillay said he rushed to the house after receiving news of a robbery.
“There are two living daughters who reside in Richards Bay. They are the youngest of the daughters. They’re twins. They’re very distraught and traumatised. It’s not an easy thing, especially towards a late evening; it comes to you like a flood,” he said.
Pillay added that the motive for the killings remains unclear, despite speculation, including suggestions linked to the employment of one of the suspects.
“We are awaiting the formal trial for more conclusive evidence as to why this happened. At this point, I don’t think anyone can say with certainty what the motive was,” he said.
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli and Deputy Minister of Environment Narend Singh visited the bereaved family on Friday.
Ntuli confirmed that one suspect remains at large and is being actively pursued by law enforcement.
He described the killings as deeply disturbing, suggesting they reflect broader societal challenges, and indicated that stronger crime-fighting measures, including the possible deployment of the military in parts of the province, should be considered.