The two suspects, Andile Mathumbu and Ayabulela Busakwe, linked to the kidnapping of Theresa Minnie (73) on 11 August, appeared for their formal bail application today, 27 August, at the Uitenhage Magistrate’s Court. The pair elected to abandon their bail applications.
The charges against them, as read in court by the magistrate Jason Thysse, are kidnapping, human trafficking and extortion, which are Schedule 6 offences as defined by the South African Criminal Procedure Amendment Act.
Today’s proceedings turned from what was supposed to be a standard bail application into a debate between the state and the suspects’ attorneys regarding the request made by the media to photograph the suspects.
The suspects’ attorneys, Luyolo Shaun Sopazi and Kwaku Aduna, respectively, argued that the publication of their clients’ photographs would further infringe their right to safety. Mathumbu alleged to the court that they had been physically assaulted by police officials upon their arrest, adding that he received threats from the arresting officials.
Sopazi stated to the court: “Having my client photographed and published will put his family at risk of being targeted and my client will be made a poster boy for this type of crime.” This statement was supported by Aduna, who added that the suspects have not yet been identified by the victim.
The state did not oppose the request to photograph and video-record the suspects.
Thysse heard all arguments presented to him regarding the matter and granted the media permission to record today’s proceedings and future appearances, provided that they do not interfere with court proceedings.
Both suspects abandoned their bail applications.
The VF Plus Caucus Leader of Nelson Mandela Bay, Bill Harington, said: “The VF Plus has made it clear that the party fully supports the state’s position, namely that bail should be opposed. According to the party, it is essential that a clear message is sent to criminal elements, and especially the kidnapping syndicate in the Bay, that these crimes will not be tolerated.”
He added: “The law must take its full course, and priority must be given to this type of serious crime, particularly because it destabilises communities and creates a climate of fear.”
Thysse said that the investigation is not finalised at this time, as there are several things that need to be completed first, such as mobile phone records and analysis, chemical analysis, financial records, tracking records, and video footage.
@ecexpressnews Two suspects linked to the kidnapping of Theresa Minnie (73), facing kidnapping, human trafficking and extortion charges, abandoned their bail applications today in Kariega and remain in custody. #fyp #explore ♬ original sound – PE Express
The case was remanded until 22 October for further investigation.
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