Lifman murder suspects return to court to contest bail denial

Two men accused of murdering Cape businessman Mark Lifman appeared in court this week to contest their bail denial. Johannes "Jakes" Jacobs and Gert "Johnny" Bezuidenhout challenged Magistrate Mashau Ramalebane's decision to deny them bail in the Thembalethu Regional Court on February 12. Lifman was shot and killed in a George parking lot on November 3, 2024.

The men were arrested at a roadblock the same day and have remained in custody since. During the bail application, their defense team argued that developments in the case should be considered when determining their release. However, the State opposed the bid, accusing the defense of presenting existing information as new evidence.

Magistrate Ramalebane denied the bail application again on February 12, and the defense has now taken issue with this ruling. The men have previously attempted to secure their freedom, with one bid reaching the Supreme Court of Appeal. The murder trial will be heard in the Circuit High Court in George, though a trial date has not been set yet. Appeal proceedings are ongoing.