In a recent development in the Senzo Meyiwa trial, the High Court in Pretoria has heard that two of the accused are allegedly involved in the murder of a prominent union leader in a separate case.
The court is currently conducting a trial within a trial to determine the admissibility of confession statements made by the accused. The lead investigator, Bongani Gininda, took the stand to provide testimony regarding the alleged connection between the accused and the union leader’s murder.
During the proceedings, a disagreement arose between the lawyers of one of the accused, Bongani Ntanzi, and Gininda regarding his involvement in the Nongoma murder case, for which he was initially arrested.
As a result of the disagreement, the court ordered Gininda to read a statement from the docket. The statement, provided by witness Simphiwe Buthelezi, implicated Ntanzi as a known gun smuggler who supplied firearms and ammunition to hitmen.
Buthelezi also linked Ntanzi and another accused, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, to the murder of the union leader.
According to Buthelezi’s statement, Ntanzi and Maphisa were overheard discussing the successful killing of a union member in Marikana during a visit to Carltonville. Buthelezi claimed that the person killed was a prominent and powerful individual.
When questioned about his involvement as a hitman, Ntanzi allegedly justified his actions as a necessary means of making a living.
These revelations have further complicated the Senzo Meyiwa trial, which has been ongoing for almost a decade. The trial centres around the murder of a well-known footballer and five men are currently being tried in connection with his death.
The court’s focus is currently on determining the admissibility of the confession statements made by the accused. This trial within a trial is crucial in ensuring that any evidence presented is obtained legally and by law.
The alleged connection between the accused and the murder of a prominent union leader adds a new dimension to the case. It raises questions about the possible motives and links between different criminal activities.
As the trial progresses, it will be essential for the court to carefully consider all the evidence presented. The credibility of witnesses, such as Buthelezi, will need to be thoroughly examined to establish the veracity of their claims.
Full Story Source: Court Hears Two Accused In Meyiwa’s Trial Allegedly Killed Prominent Union Leader
