Defence challenges IPID’s opposition to Sibande’s bail in Mbense case
Julius Mkhwanazi and five others are appearing before the Brakpan Magistrate's Court.
In the Mbense murder case, defense lawyer Jan van Heerden, representing South African Police Service officer Bhekokwakhe Sibande, has challenged the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) investigator Nomsa Masuku's reasons for opposing his client's bail. The defense is utilizing Sibande's prior cooperation with investigators as evidence to argue that he is unlikely to flee if released on bail.
Van Heerden pointed to a WhatsApp exchange where Sibande informed investigators of his whereabouts and expressed willingness to be contacted if necessary. Masuku testified that she could not recall the exchange but acknowledged its possibility due to Sibande's history of responding when required. The six accused in the case, including Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, appeared in Brakpan Magistrate's Court.
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