NPA says it has watertight case as seven more suspects appear

SEVEN more suspects who were arrested during police raids in Krugersdorp appeared in court yesterday after they were linked to the rape of eight women who were shooting a music video at an abandoned mine in the area.

The suspects – one of whom is only 15 – were among 82 zama zamas arrested during raids launched after residents visited the mineshaft.

Their appearance, which comes after seven suspects appeared on Wednesday saw further charges laid against them.

The 14 were initially charged with being in the country illegally, but now face additional charges including multiple counts of rape and robbery with aggravated circumstances.

The remaining suspects are charged only with being in the country illegally.

Speaking to eNCA outside court, National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said while they wouldn’t disclose the evidence against, suspects, a successful prosecution against the 14 was anticipated “As the NPA, we are not at liberty to share information about any evidential material at our disposal. Our work is to present such evidence in court and up until it is done, we cannot share with the public,” she said.

On Wednesday, the court heard that two of the suspects are 18 and 15 years old. Mjonondwane said the 15-year-old was taken to Leratong Hospital where an age assessment was conducted and it was established that he was a minor.

He has been taken to a place of safety.

One of the suspects who appeared yesterday told the court he was a South African citizen. However, Mjonondwane said his nationality could not be confirmed.

“The NPA can only confirm his nationality after investigations have been concluded.”

Mjonondwane said the 14 accused will appear separately from the rest of the group of 82.

The matter was postponed to August 28.