Murder accused tells court of alleged assault by police

[caption id="attachment_40278" align="alignright" width="405"] IN THE DOCK: Murder accused Welcome Qandana, 23, Ayanda Kafile, 27, Bongani Zenzile, 26, and Luthando Mlothana, 26, are on trial for the killing of COPE Motherwell zone chairman Velile Yona. Picture: MIKE HOLMES[/caption]

ONE of the men accused of murdering a former ward councillor and COPE Motherwell zone chairman Velile Yona in 2009 yesterday told the Port Elizabeth High Court that he was repeatedly assaulted by police when he was arrested.

Taking the stand yesterday, Ayanda Kafile, 27, said he was not explained the reasons for his arrest, there was an attempt to suffocate him and his wrists were injured by handcuffs. He also denied signing a notice of rights.

Kafile, together with Welcome Qandana, 23, Bongani Zenzile, 26, and Luthando Mlothana, 26 – all from Motherwell – face charges of murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm related to Yona's killing in April 2009. - Lee-Anne Butler