The State is expected to oppose murder accused Sandile Mantsoe’s bail application when he appears in the Johannesburg Magistrate Court on 24 May.
Mantsoe is charged with premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice following the gruesome murder of her ex-girlfriend Karabo Mokoena.
Mokoena was reported missing on 28 April and her charred body was found dumped in a shallow grave in Lyndhurst the next day. Her family was only notified on 10 May.
Mantsoe made his first appearance in court on 12 May and was remanded in custody in the Norwood police cells. He will appear in court again this morning for his bail application.
Speaking shortly after the court hearing, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson in Gauteng, Phindi Mjonondwane told the media that they will be opposing the bail application.
Mjonondwane said Mantsoe has been charged with a schedule six offence and he will have to try to convince the court that he is the suitable candidate for bail.
“As the State, we are going to vehemently oppose his bail application. There is a serious problem with domestic violence in the country,” said Mjonondwane.
“It is not in the interest of justice for the accused to be released on bail.”
The State believes the accused tried to dispose of the body and some of the evidence, therefore Mantsoe has been charged with premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice, added Mjonondwane.
Asked if Sandile confessed to the crime, she said there is no record where he confesses to the murder itself.
Mokoena received an emotional send-off on 19 May when she was laid to rest at the West Park Cemetery.
Details: www.npa.gov.za
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