CATHCART RIOTS RINGLEADER DENIED BAIL
The NPA has successfully opposed the release on bail of South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) Cathcart chairperson Mziwebongo Burwana (47). He faces charges of public violence, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, as well as illegal possession of firearm and ammunition. The charges emanate from the ongoing violent protests that have led to closures of the N6 road passing through the town of Cathcart.
It is alleged that on 23 February 2024 trucks were burnt and private vehicles were pelted with stones as part of protests. When the police responded, they came under attack. One of the police officers, the complainant, was hit from behind and fell. The accused, then allegedly wrestled his firearm away, aimed it at him and attempted to shoot it at him twice. When the firearm did not discharge, the accused allegedly fled the scene and was only arrested three days later. In opposing bail, Prosecutor Jongile Yako led the evidence of the investigating officer and convinced the court that Burwana’s release on bail would endanger public safety and undermine public order and security. The bail application had to be moved from Cathcart to Mdantsane after court staff came under attack from protestors and had to be rescued by police.
The case has been postponed to 05 April 2024.
