State closes case in Kilian murder trial

GARDEN ROUTE | HESSEQUA NEWS - The State closed its case in the High Court in George on Tuesday, 21 September, in which five men are accused of murdering Heila Kilian (63) on a farm outside Still Bay.

On Wednesday, 22 September, the first suspect started his testimony.

The suspects - Sakhumzi Benya, Nkoshihethu Nocuza, Msomi Nikani, Monwabisi Maki and Xolusani Myoyi - are appearing before Judge LG Nuku on seven counts.

All five pleaded not guilty to all seven counts.

Kilian was visiting the farm, Gazania, in April 2018 and was braaing with her sister Brenda and husband David Thomas, when five armed suspects in orange overalls opened fire on them. One of the bullets hit Kilian and she died there.

The suspects ransacked the house and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash, firearms and hunting knives, in a white Toyota Hilux bakkie, which belonged to David. The suspects were arrested in Mitchells Plain.

Kilian was shot through the heart. Her family members were tied up and beaten during an ordeal that lasted for up to two hours.

The trial continues and is on the court roll until 1 October.

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