P150 bribe lands fire fighters in trouble

Bonte Seepi | Tuesday October 27, 2015 14:59

 

The duo, Lindane Maphorisa (47) and Tambani Badimo (38) who both reside at BHC Junction in Palapye and work as fire fighters are alleged to have received a bribe from Bakazi Makuku in order to give her a Restaurant Inspection Order.

It is alleged that on March 26, 2012 the duo received P100 and P50 respectively at different times in Palapye and kept the money for their own use.

Both accused persons pleaded not guilty to the charge and they both appeared in person. However, they informed the court that they would seek the services of an attorney to represent them in the matter.

Meanwhile, the accused persons were released on bail which the prosecution did not oppose.

Reuben Sebetlela from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) said they would give the accused all the necessary documents including the statements of witnesses. Sebetlela also pleaded with the court to set a date for another mention date.

“I pray that the matter be given another mention date to allow them time to engage an attorney, probably after a month to give them enough time,” he said.

However, the accused persons felt the month period was too short for them to look for an attorney.

“We are pleading with the court to give us 60 days to look for an attorney. A month will not be enough for us because we are always engaged at work and sometimes we go for trips to far places like Francistown,” argued Maphorisa.

Badimo shared the same sentiments. He said that a month was too short for them as they also have to look for money to pay the lawyer.

The magistrate ordered the accused persons to come for another mention on January 18, 2016 and to bring their attorney or a letter from their attorney suggesting Case Management Conference (CMC) dates.