Mogotsi back in court over alleged staged assassination attempt

Brown Mogotsi, a North West businessman and political fixer, returned to court as prosecutors advance towards a trial over accusations that he faked an assassination attempt on himself in Vosloorus last year. The Johannesburg Magistrate's Court had earlier denied Mogotsi's request to reveal the identities and addresses of state witnesses against him, citing safety concerns. The case was adjourned to Thursday to enable the prosecution to provide the remaining investigation files to the defense.

Mogotsi is charged with several Schedule 5 offenses, including perjury, obstructing justice, illegal firearm possession, discharging a firearm in public, and attempting to bribe a police officer. The prosecution claims Mogotsi shot 11 rounds into his own vehicle and lied to police about unknown gunmen ambushing him while driving through Vosloorus in November 2025.

Forensic analysis and CCTV footage, however, allegedly contradict Mogotsi's account, suggesting the vehicle was stationary during the shooting and no one was inside.

The state alleges witnesses saw Mogotsi exit his vehicle, fire shots at it, and later claim an assassination attempt. Prosecutors also claim Mogotsi attempted to bribe a police officer during his bail application and provided an incorrect residential address. The prosecution opposed the defense's request for witness details, stating that revealing their identities could jeopardize their safety.

A witness had previously been approached by individuals allegedly linked to Mogotsi after personal details were disclosed during earlier bail proceedings.

Mogotsi's defense attorney, Makau William Sekgatja, argued that the witness list was crucial for trial preparation. However, the court maintained the prosecution's right to withhold the list. State Advocate Thami Mpekana stated that the prosecution was ready for trial but wanted to protect witness identities in the interests of justice.

The case gained further attention after investigators alleged the firearm used in the staged shooting was linked to other serious crimes, including murder. Mogotsi is set to appear in court on Thursday as the state readies its case for trial.