Senzo Meyiwa murder trial: Here are the top highlights

The trial of Senzo Meyiwa, who was tragically shot and killed in 2014, unfolds, and here are the top highlights. Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng is overseeing the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial.

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The state alleges that Sibiya, Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke Maphisa, and Fisokuhle Nkani Ntuli are responsible for Meyiwa’s murder.

Two witnesses have already identified Ntanzi as one of the two gunmen who entered the Khumalo residence in October 2014, according to IOL news.

TOP HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SENZO MEYIWA MURDER TRIAL

1. Unlwaful recording

Judge Mokgoatlheng decided that the recording of Ntanzi’s alleged confession breached his constitutional rights since he didn’t consent to it.

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Magistrate Cronje took the alleged confession on June 24, 2020, which was eight days after Ntanzi’s arrest.

2. Mjiyakho did not sign a confession

Magistrate Cronje confirmed that she didn’t create a copy of Mjiyakho’s certificates, and he didn’t sign the alleged confession or related documents.

In simple terms, Mngomezulu argued that there’s no evidence of Mjiyakho’s presence or representation during the confession.

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Magistrate Cronje stated that the interpreter could verify Mjiyakho’s presence, emphasising that Ntanzi signed in front of his lawyer and the interpreter.

3. CLAIMS OF SEVERE TORTURE

Advocate Mngomezulu, claimed severe torture and assault by police officers at four different locations before the alleged confession.

During cross-examination, Magistrate Cronje mentioned that Ntanzi denied being physically assaulted and merely indicated previous scars and injuries.

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4. Unlawful detention

Advocate Mngomezulu raised the concern of Ntanzi being held in custody illegally for several weeks without a court appearance.

The court learned that Ntanzi was taken into custody on June 16, 2020, and then presented before Magistrate Cronje for the supposed confession on June 24, 2020.

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