THE STATE and defense are preparing closing arguments in the Richards Bay Regional Court in the trial of a community leader charged with extorting payment from community members for unlawful land occupation in the Dukuduku Forest.
Thengazakhe Timothy Maphanga (48) was arrested and charged in 2011 with eight contraventions of the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act, or alternatively, fraudulently soliciting payment for permitting persons to occupy Government land.
According to the charge sheet, Maphanga received R18 975 from eight complainants between 2009 and 2011.
He was also charged with intimidation, allegedly threatening Timothy Msimango that he will be shot and his house burnt down if he does not pay him R3 000.
The tenth count related to stock theft of Msimango’s five goats.
At the time of his first appearance, a large contingent of supporters gathered at court, petitioning for his release and the case enjoyed wide public attention.
Maphanga maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all counts.
During trial, one State witness testified that he bought a piece of land from Maphanga for R1 500 in 2008, but never received a receipt, as Maphanga was rushing to a wedding.
Maphanga was discharged at the closing of the State’s case on four contraventions, intimidation and theft.
Regional Court Magistrate Mrs K Moodley will hear arguments from both sides on the balance of the charges on 9 October.
