Three family members of Freddy George Willis appeared in court after being arrested for his murder in Schoemansdal on Sunday.
The wife, son, and grandson of elderly Mpumalanga businessman Freddy George Willis are facing murder charges after the 80-year-old man was shot at point-blank range on Sunday in Schoemansdal.
The three suspects appeared at the Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday in connection with Willis’ murder.
The suspects include the businessman’s wife, 75-year-old Nomvula Lucy Willis; his 55-year-old son, George Kenedy Willis; and his 29-year-old grandson, Kenny Rudolph Willis.
Family members accused of businessman’s murder
The family members’ case was postponed to 6 May for a formal bail application after they were arrested on Monday.
According to preliminary information, two armed men wearing balaclavas allegedly attacked George while he was visiting his parents. The son claimed that the attackers ambushed him as he arrived at the house in Schoemansdal in his Mercedes-Benz.
“The suspects reportedly tied him up with a cable and proceeded into the house, where they reportedly shot the 80-year-old male victim at point-blank range before fleeing the scene in the son’s vehicle,” said Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli in a statement on Monday.
ALSO READ: Man gets life sentence for ‘execution-style’ murder of sister, attempted murder of stepmother
In a shocking turn, police investigators identified the businessman’s wife, son and grandson as suspects and arrested the three family members on Monday.
More arrests?
Mdhluli said the police cannot rule out further arrests as the investigation continues.
The Nkomazi Magistrate’s Court remanded the trio in custody until their next court appearance next week.
Acting Limpopo provincial commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi commended the investigation team for their work.
“This incident is deeply concerning, and we will not rest until all those responsible are held accountable,” said the general.
NOW READ: Father jailed for 15 years after daughter dies during confrontation about coming home late
