25 Jan 2022

The state has been granted the right to use force to draw samples of blood from the accused in the P2.3million G4S cash heist, should they continue refusing to go for a DNA test.

Broadhurst Magistrate, Ms Lesedi Rammapudi made the order yesterday, after an application by the prosecution, which had complained that the accused, Mothusi Matomela, Thapelo Lekobe, Mzwandile Mazibuko and Ntholephi Elliot Ntshalintshali had reneged on their earlier consent to provide samples of their blood for the test.

This, the state argued, the delayed its preparation of the case. When making the order Ms Rammapudi said during one of the previous court appearances, the accused persons consented to the test, only to somersault when the tests were about to be done.

Ms Rammapudi said the accused persons were facing serious charges and it was expected that they produce blood samples as part of investigations.

The men are charged with armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, unlawful possession of ammunition, and possession of goods stolen outside the country.

“In the interest of progress, the court has given an order that the accused persons undergo the required DNA tests. Therefore you are directed to consent to the said tests.  If you object, the prosecution may use force to carry out the directed procedure,” she said. The men are remanded in custody and will appear for mention on February 3. ENDS