The High Court in Pretoria is expected to determine on Monday whether police officers who were present when Sifiso “Gwabini” Zungu alleges he was assaulted will be called to testify as the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial resumes.
Five men are on trial for the 2014 murder of Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa, who was shot at a home in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg.
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Alleged Assault Under Scrutiny
According to the SABC, Zungu, the third defence witness, testified that he hosted a gathering at a hostel in Vosloorus on the day Meyiwa was killed, where all the accused were allegedly present.
The State was in the middle of cross-examining Zungu when the defence objected to questions relating to his witness statement.
The defence argued that the statement was signed under duress, alleging that Zungu was assaulted by police and forced to sign the document.
Judge Raises Serious Concerns
Presiding Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng described the allegations of assault as serious and indicated that the police officers who were present when Zungu was questioned should be called to court to explain what transpired.
“If I don’t call these witnesses who allegedly beat up Mr Gwabini at the cemetery and Gold Spot, I will be failing in my duty,” Judge Mokgoatlheng said.
“It is essential for the just decision of the case.”
The judge added that the court retains the authority to call witnesses at any stage of the proceedings, even after the close of arguments, if it believes their testimony is necessary to establish the truth.
Judge Mokgoatlheng said Zungu’s cross-examination could continue after the officers have testified, emphasising that the court wants to hear from those accused of committing or witnessing the alleged misconduct.
