JUKUYLN New Year's mass murder accused Tshepo Mosimeni was denied, and songs of praise broke out at the Soshanguve Magistrates Court.
This comes after Mosimeni's defence attorney, Stephen Magoro, cross-examined investigating officer Sergeant Tshepo Seale.
Previously, Magoro indicated in court that Mosimeni was not present at the crime scene and had an alibi and proof to back it up.
Seale confirmed and validated that he conducted a follow-up by visiting the applicant's residence.
"The alleged video footage was found and viewed, and Mosimeni was seen on the footage," he said, adding that it was comfortable for the technicians to exclude him from the crime scene after collecting a statement from his girlfriend, who was present at his apartment.
Furthermore, he stated that due to the delay of Masimeni's phone records, a report application had been filed to confirm call records and see whether they were registered under his name by Rica.
"Even though the alibi confirmed his whereabouts, the state's case against him still requires complex and thorough investigations without his interference. He is still facing serious charges; however, I do not believe he is the ideal candidate to be granted bail," he said.
Magoro presented an affidavit before the court of Mosemeni's cousin, who was willing to accommodate him until the matter was finalised at Winteveldt in Mhlaumbe, Tshwane, and he also assured the court that Mosimeni is not a flight risk because he is attending his other case at the Pretoria North Magistrates Court and that he doesn't have any court orders against him.
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According to Judge Swart, Mosimeni may not have been physically present at the crime scene. Still, he was involved in planning the premeditated execution because he was a member of the syndicates.
He also stated that witnesses to the crime are terrified of the syndicates and that certain cartels employ mafia-style protection, forcing the community to monitor and collect money from them.
Mosimeni, along with his co-accused Sipho Kgomo, George Nyathi, and Sizwe Msibi, who appeared in the Soshanguve Magistrates Court on Thursday, February 15, will remain in custody.
Vuyolwethu Ziwele's mum, Nandipha Ziwele, told Daily Sun she was relieved.
"At least the guy was denied bail; I am happy," she said.
Slain Gopolang Molakapatlo's sister, Thembisile Molakapatlo, said that it was preferable that he not be allowed bail.
"A phone call is enough to get someone killed, so I'm pleased that justice will finally be served," she added.
