CO-OPERATIVE Governance director Selby Mogakane (49) who faces rape charges was granted R20 000 bail on Thursday, 13 May, by the Bushbuckridge Magistrates Court.
But shortly after delivering his bail judgment, State Prosecutor Aletta Mnisi told court there are new two counts added against Mogakane for allegedly raping an eight-year-old in 2014 in Shatale near Bushbuckridge.
The case was postponed to Tuesday, 18 May, where Mogakane is expected to apply for bail following the new charges against him.
Mogakane’s wife, Ludres Ngoveni (36) will remain in police custody after her bail was denied.
The duo are facing charges of rape, compelled sexual assaults, illegal immigration, human trafficking and assault with intent to do bodily grievous harm on two minors, aged 13 and 15, from Mozambique.
Magistrate Nhlanhla Malomane said Ngoveni’s lawyer failed to show exceptional circumstances that warranted the court to release her.
He said Ngoveni is an illegal immigrant in the country and it would be very risky to release her.
On Monday investigation officer Detective Sergeant Norah Dumisa opposed bail, saying there’s a likelihood for both accused to be a flight risk, and they might also interfere or have influence on the witnesses`.
Dumisa appealed with the state at least said allow her more ground to cover investigations.
Defence lawyer Advocate Pompi Letsoalo argued his clients are innocent until proven guilty by the court.
“It’s unfair to keep them longer in jail hence police don’t do their work. Both of my clients are not a flight risk. “Applicant number one is a sole bread winner in the family. He has a chronic illness and is a student at Unisa. “And he has immovable assets and his job is at risk now. “Applicant number two is his wife. Both married in a recognised customary marriage in this country. She left a 91-year-old elderly person and two children aged 6 and 11 going to school,” said Letsoalo.
Two week ago the couple told court they would plead not guilty to all charges against them.
