SENZO MEYIWA’S MURDER TRIAL POSTPONED DUE TO DEFENCE CONSULTATIONS WITH WITNESS

The five accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder matter, Muzikawukhulelwa Sthemba Sibiya (34), Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi (30), Mthobisi Prince Ncube (36), Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke Maphisa (35) and Sifokuhle Ntuli (35) appeared in the Pretoria High Court on Tuesday,12 April 2022. The trial was set to start, after the defence of accused number 5-Ntuli, asked for a one-day postponement on Monday, 11 April 2022.

However, the defence for accused number 5 asked for a further five-day detainment , stating they needed more time to consult with state witnesses as a result of the statements that they received on the 28th March 2022. The statements were withheld for safety of the witnesses and a plan to put them in the Witness Protection.

NPA Reginal Spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana added that the state did not oppose the request for postponement, it pointed out to the court that it was in the best interest of society that the matter is finalised. The judge granted the remand and said that it was the final one, as he needed to consider the rights of the deceased family as well.

The matter is set for 22 April 2022, for trial.