05 May 2021

 Othata Banyatsang, 29, who is accused of murdering Bangu Lowani, 22, last month appeared before Francistown Magistrate Court May 5 .

Detective Sub Inspector Fela Phirinyane of Francistown Police Station said the accused was facing a serious crime that involved the use of force and pleaded with court not to grant him bail. 

Det. Sub Inspector Phirinyane also said their investigations were still at the initial stage as the accused was arrested early this month.

He also told court that the accused should not be given bail as his life would not only be in danger, but that of the public and the deceased person’s family. 

He said the family of the deceased and the public were angry, and that granting him bail would be tantamount to putting his life in danger. 

The accused on the other hand requested bail, saying investigations were still at the initial stage and that the investigating officer knew where he stayed and where to find him should the need arise. 

Principal Magistrate Mooketsi Game said while the state presented that the accused should be remanded in custody as investigations were still at the initial stage, the court may consider not granting bail on factors such as flight risk, adding, however, that the accused was still innocent until proven guilty. 

She said since society was still in anguish and might take the law into their hands to avenge the death, and that the state must do investigations without interference, he would be denied bail. 

The principal magistrate ruled that the accused be remanded in custody and appear before court on May 20. ends