Zandile Christmas Mafe’s Case Is Delayed By A Waterlogged Parliament Facility

The Cape Town Magistrates’ Court postponed the case against alleged arsonist Zandile Christmas Mafe, for six weeks after the state requested to finalise outstanding investigations. Senior State Adv. Mervyn Menigo told the court that forensic investigators were granted access to parliament on 15 March 2022. Adv. Menigo submitted an affidavit of the investigating officer, Colonel Christian Gabriel Theron, which states there was 50 tons of water in the basement of parliament which needs to be cleared for the forensic investigators to be able to determine the costs and amount of damage. This is needed when dealing with arson and terrorism charges.

He informed the court that a positive facial recognition report has been received and that the State will have a draft indictment and summary of facts ready at the next court appearance. He also advised the court that a high court date may be decided at the next court appearance. “We know that the accused was arrested on 4 January 2022, this is a complex investigation which has resulted in unforeseen delays, which are not in the hands of the investigating team,” he argued.

The court granted the State the request for further investigation and postponed the case to 12 May 2022. The defence informed the court that they have advised the State, that they intend to appeal Mafe’s doomed bail application at the high court. The State will oppose the bail appeal. Mafe is charged with housebreaking with intent to commit terrorism and arson, terrorism, arson and theft.

Note: The NPA’s media statements are available on the website: www.npa.gov.za

Issued by:

Eric Ntabazalila

National Prosecuting Authority

Regional Communications Manager

Western Cape

Tel: (021) 487 7308Mobile: 073 062 1222

Email: entabazalila@npa.gov.za