By Staff Reporter
Twelve soldiers who were allegedly involved in the murders of Lieutenant Colonel Frans Mathipa and the kidnapping of two other people, have been granted R10,000 bail each.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said they were granted bail by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
The charges emanate from the kidnapping of Abdella Hussain Abadiga and Kadir Jemal Abotese, who were abducted from the Mall of Africa in 2022 and taken to Zwartkop Military Base in Centurion. Their whereabouts are still unknown.
The accused also face charges related to the assassination of Mathipa, who was a Hawks officer investigating the kidnappings. Mathipa was killed on 6 August 2023 while driving on the N1 Highway by occupants using a SANDF vehicle.
Mjonondwane said the court found that the soldiers were suitable candidates to be released on bail.
The defence counsels presented affidavits from the accused, claiming they were not present at the scenes of the incidents and knew nothing about the murders. A statement from their commander was also presented.
The prosecution presented a comprehensive affidavit from the investigating officer, stating that the accused were a danger to society as they were trained in using high-calibre firearms to eliminate any threat.
Mjonondwane said his affidavit further detailed how each of the accused was linked to the allegations and how they allegedly attempted to get rid of the vehicle linked to the murder.
The NPA noted the court’s ruling with disappointment and has requested a postponement to 17 July for leave to appeal.
INSIDE POLITICS