Four counts discharged in ‘fibre feud’ trial (UPDATED)
The Magistrate decided not to discharge the counts of attempted murder and incitement of violence.
Four counts have been discharged as the ‘fibre feud’ trial continued on Wednesday.
Magistrate Theunis Colditz was expected to deliver judgement in the Newcastle Regional Court. However, the case is anticipated to be wrapping up on Monday instead.
On Wednesday, the first accused, Sgananda Shezi was called to the stand to give testimony. The third accused, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba was not called to testify by the defence.
At the close of proceedings, Magistrate Colditz granted a discharge of counts 1, 3, 4, and 5. These respective charges are: robbery with aggravating circumstances, assault GBH, malicious damage to property, and theft.
Shezi still faces one count of attempted murder (count 2 in this matter).
Dr Mahlaba’s attorney, Ravindra Maniklall explained count 6 is incitement to commit counts 1, 3, 4, and 5, of which Dr Mahlaba has already been acquitted by the Regional Court.
“The complainant for count 2 testified that the Mayor was not present at the time he was assaulted, and he never saw him at all on that day, hence there cannot be any incitement to assault in count 6.”
Stay tuned for more from the courtroom next week.
RELATED COVERAGE: ‘Fibre feud’ trial to conclude today
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