Nigerian Men Accused of Killing Gift Combrinck Remain in Custody as Lydenburg Protests Grow

Two Nigerian nationals accused of kidnapping and murdering Gift Combrinck, a 49-year-old Lydenburg resident, remain behind bars while the community demands they be denied bail.

The suspects, Thinedu Chukwu (39) and Ikena Obi (43), were arrested in September after Combrinck’s body was found near De Clerq Street in Lydenburg, Mpumalanga.

Court Appearance and Bail Delay

The two men made a brief appearance in the Lydenburg Magistrate’s Court this week. Their bail hearing was postponed to 11 November, and both remain in custody.

Outside court, dozens of residents gathered to protest. Family members, joined by local activists, held placards calling for justice and urging the court not to release the accused.

Family Says Victim Was Accused of Stealing Drugs

Combrinck’s sister, Shireen Mathenjwa, told Newzroom Afrika that the family had been informed her brother was accused by the Nigerian suspects of stealing their drugs before his abduction.

“The Nigerian foreign nationals took my brother. Apparently, they accused him of stealing their drugs. I do not know if that is true it is just hearsay, but that is what the witness said,” she said.

The police have not confirmed this allegation, describing it as part of the ongoing investigation.

How the Case Unfolded

According to Sergeant Thulisile Magagula, Combrinck was reported missing on 23 September 2025 after failing to return home.
Police opened a missing person case at the Lydenburg SAPS and launched a search operation.

Three days later, officers discovered Combrinck’s body on 25 September near De Clerq Street.
Investigators believe he was kidnapped and murdered, leading to the arrest of the two suspects.

Community Anger and Broader Concerns

The murder has shaken Lydenburg, a quiet mining town already struggling with crime linked to drugs and illegal activities.
Residents say the case highlights rising tensions between locals and foreign nationals involved in alleged drug networks.

“We want justice for Gift and safety for our community,” one protester told local reporters outside court.

What Happens Next

The bail hearing on 11 November will determine whether Chukwu and Obi remain in custody until trial.
Police say investigations continue as they build a stronger case linking the suspects to the kidnapping and murder.

For now, the Lydenburg community remains united in its call for accountability and an end to drug-related violence in their town.