The second trial into the murder of late Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Senzo Meyiwa officially began on Tuesday.
Senzo Meyiwa was shot and killed while visiting the home of his then-girlfriend and singer Kelly Khumalo in Vosloorus, east of Johannesburg on October 26, 2014.
The accused individuals in Senzo Meyiwa murder case are Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Fisokuhle Nkani Ntuli.
They have been charged with premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstances, and possession of firearms without a license.
Asked to tender their pleas before the new judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng, all the accused pleaded not guilty to these charges and opted to not explain their pleas.
During the trial’s opening, State Advocate George Baloyi informed the court that both the prosecution and the defence had concluded a pre-trial conference. He outlined several admissions that had been made, including the identity of the deceased and the date and time at which he was declared dead.
Baloyi clarified that the disputed aspect of the case revolves around the identity of the person or persons who shot Meyiwa. He said the state intends to present witnesses who were present in the house during the incident, as well as neighbours. Additionally, a photo album will be utilised to demonstrate the scene of the incident to the court.
“Photographers will also be called to testify, ballistic evidence, and forensic and police officers will be called. A cellphone analyst will be called to map out the contact of the accused,” he said.
Baloyi announced that a separate trial within the trial will also take place.
Zandie Khumalo, who previously testified in the now nullified first trial, is the first witness to take the stand in the current proceedings.
“People who had statements made to them by the accused will also be called. There will also be a trial within a trial. The state calls its first witness Ms. Zandie Khumalo.”
This is a developing story…
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