The SBV case of 2014 made its first appearance in the High Court of the Middelburg Magistrates Court on Monday.
On Monday, February 8 the accused approached the court dressed in their finest to appear in the high court on counts of armed robbery, attempted murder and kidnapping, to name a few.
This is in connection with the armed robbery that took place on April 27, 2014 in which security guards were poisoned and abandoned alongside the road when the accused allegedly made off with R107-million.
Moments before their appearance in the court there was a buzz of chatter amongst the accused.
A police contingent of 10 officers from Middelburg Police arrived at the court and surveyed the court room ensuring it was safe before anyone else was allowed to enter.
“On the date the matter must stand for trial to run, no one will stand before the court saying they can not be represented,” said Judge Dunstan Mlambo in his opening statement to the 17 accused before him.
He further explained that the charges the accused face are serious ones and that it is highly important that they are represented on the day.
Judge Mlambo continued and addressed each of the accused requesting who their attorney or advocate would be and if they would seek legal representation.
Oupa Molapo, who was arrested on May 15, 2014 opted to defend himself – a bold statement especially in a high court room – the room fell silent.
“This is not a game it is a criminal trial,” said Judge Mlambo who explained that Molapo should have a lawyer to represent his defence.
To which Molapo replied –
“My life is in my hands I can not trust someone with my life.”
Judge Mlambo agreed to allow Molapo to represent himself on two conditions. One was not to change his mind come the next court date and the other was to allow a representative from legal aid to assist him.
“If you insist to represent yourself then I will request legal aid to assist you, please co-operate with the legal aid. They will assist and guide you but you will represent yourself,” Judge Mlambo said.
“Don’t blame the legal justice system should you not like the outcome,” he added.
Mr Teenage Mabogoane was absent and a warrant of arrest was authorised but withheld pending the receipt of the medical certificate excusing him from the court appearance.
The matter was then postponed provisionally for July 25 for full disclosure of all documentation regarding the case; these documents would be made readily available by Friday, February 12.
