The case against alleged arsonist Zandile Christmas Mafe, has been postponed for six weeks after the state requested to finalise outstanding investigations.
Mafe appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Friday, and is charged with housebreaking with intent to commit terrorism and arson, terrorism, arson and theft.
Senior State Advocate, Mervyn Menigo told the court that
forensic investigators were granted access to parliament on 15 March 2022. Adv.
Menigo submitted an affidavit of the investigating officer, Colonel Christian
Gabriel Theron, which states there was 50 tons of water in the basement of
parliament which needs to be cleared for the forensic investigators to be able
to determine the costs and amount of damage. This is needed when dealing
with arson and terrorism charges.
He informed the court that a positive facial
recognition report has been received and that the State will have a draft
indictment and summary of facts ready at the next court appearance. He also
advised the court that a high court date may be decided at the next court
appearance.
“We know that the accused was arrested on 4 January 2022,
this is a complex investigation which has resulted in unforeseen delays, which
are not in the hands of the investigating team,” he argued.
PICTURE: NPA - Affidavit of the investigating officer, Colonel Christian Gabriel Theron‘’The defence informed the court that they have advised the
State, that they intend to appeal Mafe’s doomed bail application at the high
court. The State will oppose the bail appeal,’’ said National prosecuting
Authority’s Western Cape spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila.
Done By: Mitchum George
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