Durban — The trial of a 25-year-old man charged with culpable homicide relating to the deaths of a woman and her baby is expected to begin on Tuesday in the Durban Magistrate’s Court.
The State alleges that on or about February 29, 2020, Zakhele Charles Thobela drove his vehicle into Thembakayo Ndebele and her baby, Sithuli Ndebele, near Gale Street in Durban. He fled the scene and was apprehended and allegedly assaulted by residents before the police arrived and arrested him.
In March, Thobela was granted R5 000 bail after his defence told the court he had a child, was employed as a teacher and was the breadwinner at home.
During the time of his bail application, Thobela told the court he had been assaulted by the police officers who arrested him. He said he had visible injuries and his face was severely swollen. He told the court that while he was being taken to hospital he was not treated properly and his mental capacity had been affected.
The matter was meant to go to trial on Monday. The State asked it be rolled over to to day as only two State witnesses – police officers – were present. He said there were other witnesses, but they had not arrived.
Thobela’s defence lawyer, Advocate Zulu, raised concerns about the roll over as his client had travelled from Johannesburg.
“Although the matter has dragged on for long, our hands are tied,” he said.
Magistrate Jackie Jonck said she understood the position of the State.
“The matter is rolled over for the State to secure the attendance of witnesses who are not present. Your bail is extended until tomorrow.”
Daily News