The NPA has moved to clarify reports surrounding a prosecutor at the centre of a dramatic Mpumalanga court saga, insisting it never officially declared him missing.
Prosecutor Mkhuseli Ntaba was found in contempt of court on Monday after failing to arrive for a high-profile bail application at the Kwaaggafontein Magistrate’s court.
The matter against taxi tycoons Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, Bafana Sindane, and two others, who faced extortion and money laundering charges, was subsequently struck off the roll, with the court also issuing a warrant of arrest for Ntaba.
The extraordinary developments sent shockwaves through legal circles, particularly after the NPA confirmed it had been unable to reach or locate Ntaba following his failure to appear in court.
The chief magistrate sided with arguments by the defence led by former NPA boss Shaun Abrahams, who accused the state of gross incompetence.
The legal implications are significant as a matter struck off the roll in these circumstances cannot simply resume in court, but requires a fresh decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions to re-enrol it.
Mongezi Koko
www.ewn.co.za
