Magistrate delays MP�s son motor vehicle trial
Sharon Mathala | Tuesday March 8, 2016 14:58
The trial was set to begin yesterday but postponed because of Taolo’s absence. The court was also informed that it is not clear when Taolo would be available.
The Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) lawyer, Priscilla Israel told the court yesterday that progression in the case had come to a halt because of the unavailability of the chief magistrate.
“Trial was supposed to commence today [yesterday], for the next two weeks, but we were told that the presiding Magistrate is not available and we have not been given a date. I did not even call the witnesses today because we are all confused as to when the trial will actually start,” Israel said.
After the matter was stood down for a few minutes, defence lawyer Unoda Mack then informed the court that he had been in touch with Taolo who said he does not know when he would be in the city.
It is still unknown when trial will resume but mention date for status hearing has been set for April 29. Khan’s son, Nadeem Khan has been charged along with Oteng Puleng, Thabo Seswai and Modisaotsile Rentse for stealing the cars in June 2014. Khan was a wanted man soon after the news broke out but was ultimately arrested. The four men have since been granted bail.The Botswana Defence Force (BDF) previously confirmed that the two vehicles, a Ford Ranger and a Toyota Land Cruiser were taken from the barracks and that proper procedure had not been followed. The Ford Ranger was taken on June 30, 2014 while the Land Cruiser was taken the following day. The vehicles were supposed to be taken to the Central Transport Organisation (CTO) but they never reached the intended destination.