Rape suspects denied bail

Lebogang Baingapi | Monday February 1, 2016 15:49

 

The accused last appeared on October 14, 2015 but missed other two court appearances. A warrant of arrest was issued and remained in force until he was arrested and brought before court. On December 8, 2015, the prosecution withdrew the matter until they arrested him on Thursday last week. The prosecution pleaded that he be remanded in custody as he had proven to be a flight risk.

Seoseng however insisted that he was told by one CID officer that the October 22, 2015 mention was cancelled and that he would come and update him about the next mention. When quizzed whether he wants to call the said officer to testify on the allegations, he declined stating that it was not worth it because the officer failed to inform him about the next appearance.

Magistrate Basetsana Keakantse ruled that his refusal to call the said police officer means that what he said was far from truth.

“Your character disqualifies you from being a bail candidate. If granted bail, you may not stand trial and in the interest of justice you will be remanded in custody until the 11th of February 2016,” she ordered.

He was advised that if not satisfied with the ruling he could appeal at the High Court within 14 days. Seoseng is charged with rape of a woman at Rapeitane Lands on November 9, 2014.