CHAOS erupted in the Rustenburg Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 14 June when community members were barred from entering the courtroom.
Residents were on the court premises for the case of a 19-year-old suspect who accused of stabbing and killing 18-year-old pupil, Lethabo Sibanda, at Rustenburg Bus Rank on Friday, 2 June.
However, only the Sibanda family was allowed in the courtroom, which outraged the community. They tried to force entry, but the police, who were monitoring court proceedings to maintain order, managed to control the situation. They only allowed the family into the courtroom to avoid overcrowding.
The accused, who faces charges of murder and attempted murder, was denied bail. Magistrate Hendrick van Wyk said the reasons stated by the applicant during his bail application did not prove why it was in the best interest of justice that he be granted bail.
“The court is of the belief that the state has a strong case against the accused. The applicant did not prove on a balance of probability that exceptional circumstances exist,” said Van Wyk.
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He added that the court must take note of the seriousness of the offence and that the interest of the community is taken into consideration. He further said pupils are involved and incidents of this kind cannot be accepted.
Lethabo's aunt, Portia, said they are happy that the accused was denied bail even though the family is still in pain.
“We can see progress and believe that justice will be served,” said Portia, adding that they appreciated the support from the public. She said they thank God for giving them strength through this difficult time.
The case was postponed to 27 July for further investigations.
