01 Mar 2018

Freedom dreams for alleged Mochudi MP murderer were shattered following senior magistrate, Lindiwe Makgoro’s pronouncement of the withdrawal of  his residence permit by the Ministry of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs.

Jabulani Dube,31, is facing a single count of murdering Mochudi East Member of Parliament (MP). He could not be granted bail amid the prosecutor’s failure to advance convincing reasons why the accused should be denied bail.
 

Applying for the accused’s bail, defence attorney Sesupo Masaka called for Dube’s freedom, arguing that he has all the necessary documents to stay and work in the country as an immigrant.

He also stated that there were no valid reasons presented by the prosecution on why his client should be denied bail.

In her ruling, senior magistrate Makgoro stated that a signed document from the Department of Immigration, Nationality and Gender Affairs was submitted as part of notifying the court about the cancellation of the accused’s residence permit.

“In view of the development, it means you are now an illegal immigrant.”

“If this court grants you bail, it means you will face deportation,” he highlighted.

She further stated that the prosecution failed to substantiate their fears on why the accused should not be allowed to regain his liberty.

She said despite convincing arguments advanced by the defence counsel, the court was left with no choice but to decide otherwise following the notification of the cancellation of the  residence permit of the accused by the immigration department that expired on September 30.

She further stated that the presentation of the document by the prosecution has proved without  doubt why the accused should be denied bail.

Meanwhile, the prosecutor in the matter, state counsel Mahwite told the court about the prosecution’s intention to expedite the investigation processes by putting together the necessary documents related to the case to prepare for Dube’s committal warrant to the High Court.

Mahwite is assisted by Superintendent Daniel Katse of Letlhakeng police. Dube and Mokgaleme Keoikanetse are each facing a single count of murder as they are alleged to have stabbed to death MP, Issac Davids at Sorilatholo on January 14 this year.

Dube is to appear again for mention on March 13 while his co accused is to appear on 17 April.ENDS