Media restrictions in Mantsoe case due to 'sensitive info'
The National Prosecuting Authority says its objection to the media reporting on the bail application of Sandile Mantsoe, is to prevent the revelation of sensitive information.
Mantsoe's bail application has been postponed to next month in the Johannesburg Magistrates Court.
He is standing trial for the murder of his girlfriend Karabo Mokoena, whose burnt body was found in a veld in Lyndhurst last month.
The incident sparked renewed calls for government to act on the abuse of women and children.
Mantsoe has been charged with premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice and could face life in prison should he be convicted.
The NPA's Phindi Njondonwane says the decision is based on protecting evidence.
"What the media might find as nothing, is enough evidence for the state or it might be regarded valuable to the state." she says.
She adds that it is unfortunate that the state and the media are not in agreement.
The magistrate has granted the media permission to film the bail judgment.