Public violence charges against 11 Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members for their actions during unrest in Alexandra in May, may be dropped.
The accused heard this when they appeared at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court, Ferndale, on 20 October.
Their lawyer, Norman Montjane, announced that he is “bargaining with the State” to have the charges dropped if the group cleans some streets in Alexandra, or performs other community service.
He said that the State has agreed to these terms.
The case was adjourned until 27 November.
The group is all that remains of the 101 people initially arrested on charges of public violence, and assault and malicious damage to property.
Charges against 90 of them were dropped on 6 October (see previous article).
It was also heard on 20 October that one of the accused has failed to appear at court from the beginning of proceedings, because he allegedly thought that the charges were dropped against him.
A warrant for his arrest was issued.
However, it was held over until 27 November.
That means that if the State and defence do not come to an agreement and the matter proceeds and the man fails to appear in court, the warrant will be executed – unless the charges are dropped by then.
One of the now-acquitted men charged with assault and malicious damage to property said on 20 October that “the EFF has washed their hands off us.”
He explained that party leaders had stopped attending, or providing transport for the accused and their supporters.
Details: Randburg Magistrates’ Court 011 998 5300.
