‘Jub Jub’, Themba face murder

TLALANE TSHETLO

JOHANNESBURG - When controversial hip-hop singer Molemo “Jub Jub” Maarohanye and his friend Themba Tshabalala appear in the Protea Magistrate’s Court today, they will face four counts of murder.

This comes after the four counts of culpable homicide were yesterday changed to murder.

Jub Jub and Tshabalala were allegedly drag racing in Protea North, Soweto, on Monday afternoon when one of the cars slammed into the back of the other car, causing both drivers to lose control of their vehicles.

Four pupils were killed and two injured. According to The Star, three of the deceased were from Jules High School and are believed to be Prince Mahube (Grade 10), Mlungisi Cwayi (Grade 12) and Phomelelo Masemola (Grade 10). Andile Mthombeni from Altmont High was the fourth victim who was knocked down and killed.

Fumani Mushwana, 16, and Frank Mlambo, 17, were rushed to the Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital in a critical condition.

Johannesburg Metro police spokesman Edna Mamonyane said the accident happened in a two-way street and one of the cars had driven into oncoming traffic.

“When a car came from the other direction, the driver tried to swerve back into the correct lane and crashed into the Mini he was racing against.

“They both drove onto the pavement and mowed down the four young boys,” said Mamonyane.

Mamonyane yesterday said after an investigation, the charges were changed from culpable homicide to murder. She said the men were both tested for alcohol and narcotics.

“The first man tested positive for alcohol and an illegal substance believed to be cocaine. Jub Jub did not test positive for alcohol, but he also tested positive for the illegal substance,” said Mamonyane.

The two were due to appear in court yesterday, but the case was postponed to today after the two claimed they were in pain.

Community leader Dlangezwa Mvelase said the community would be protesting outside the court, opposing bail.