Matter of fact on SABC mugging case
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development would like to clarify reports by the media that the case involving suspects of the on-camera robbery of an SABC TV crew was delayed because the court did not have appropriate interpreters.
The department strives to always ensure that the necessary infrastructure and personnel are available to prevent unnecessary delays in court processes. It is on record that at 08h45 yesterday, three interpreters (Maputo Shangaan, Zimbabwean Ndebele and Bangla) were in court 10 and ready to render required services to the accused. The postponement was to allow Legal Aid South Africa to consult with the accused prior to their appearance for bail application.
The matter was postponed to 26 March 2015 for a formal bail application. There is no record of the matter being held back due to the unavailability of interpreters. It is therefore requested that appropriate action be taken to correct the misrepresentation of facts, which undermines our efforts to ensure an efficient justice system.
Enquiries:
Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Correctional services
Cell: 083 641 8141
E-mail: Mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za
