General Sibiya appears in Randburg court, to be held at Kgosi Mampuru

General Shadrack Sibiya, a 59-year-old Lieutenant General with the South African Police Service, has made his first court appearance in Randburg Magistrate's Court. He is charged with rape and sexual assault, specifically facing allegations of raping an 18-year-old woman and grooming a 16-year-old girl. The senior officer was arrested on Monday.

The case is currently being heard in Kgosi Mampuru prison, but Sibiya is set to return to court on September 29th. A media contingent has gathered outside the courthouse, while the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the accused's defense discuss media access and filming restrictions.

The State opposes Sibiya's bail application, citing ongoing interference with state witnesses and serious threats made against them. Prosecutors have also alleged that a "cabal" is aiding the accused, raising concerns about witness and victim safety. This has led to the request for his transfer to Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

However, the defense is opposing this transfer, arguing that no justification has been provided for the proposed move and that it falls outside the court's jurisdiction in Pretoria. The State has confirmed that not all electronic devices related to the investigation have been recovered, and some may have been concealed by the accused's legal team at their instructions.