Court grants reopening of bail in Ben Gumbi murder case
The Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court has granted an application by the alleged killer of North West businessman Ben Gumbi to reopen his bail hearing.
North West police arrested Sibongiseni Ngubane, who allegedly had a hand in the murder of Gumbi, in August after his appearance in the Germiston Magistrate's Court on an unrelated matter.
The Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court granted the reopening on Monday, the National Prosecuting Authority confirmed.
Ngubane is one of four people accused of killing Gumbi in the Rustenburg CBD in August.
“The state will argue strongly against the granting of bail after consulting with the investigating officer,” said North West NPA spokesperson Henry Mamothame
“The investigating officer, in taking the stand prior to the reopening of the bail hearing, urged the court to consider the seriousness of the offence, as the accused is facing a schedule 6 offence of premeditated murder.
“He further alluded to the safety of the accused against three other suspects who were on the run and may endanger his life. The accused was also pointed out at an identity parade by several witnesses. The state further highlighted the community's interest in the matter following the circulation of a recording of the alleged incident on social media platforms. The state also urged the court to consider the gruesome manner in which the alleged murder was committed.”
Closing arguments are set to be heard on Thursday.
ALSO READ:
