The Western Cape High Court has granted an extension to the lawyer representing alleged underworld kingpin Nafiz Modack before the Hawks detective’s cross-examination.
Also read: Modack trial: Kinnear pinged over 100 times per day before assassination
After repeated delays in the cross-examination of one of the state’s star witnesses, Judge Robert Henney determined that in order for a fair trial, Modack’s Legal Aid lawyer, Advocate Bash Sibda, needed more time to speak with his client.
This comes despite testimony by Hawks detective Captain Edward Du Plessis, who detailed the most of the allegations connected to the pinging and tracking of killed Anti-Gang Unit detective Charl Kinnear prior to his death, as well as the botched hit on attorney William Booth.
Find your perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Du Plessis also spotlighted an Empire Investments bank account used by Modack and his co-accused.
He also emphasised digital evidence obtained on accused Zane Kilian’s mobile, where he discovered a collection of screenshots that he claims implicates Modack in the tracking of Kinnear and Booth.
Sibda addressed the court and informed Henney of the challenges she had when speaking with Modack at Goodwood Prison. He did not expand on the challenges, but requested a three-day postponement.
Henney concurred, adding that Du Plessis’ evidence posed numerous difficulties that Modack needed to address.
‘There is also the attempted murder and murder charges of Colonel Kinnear and attempt on Booth and you cannot just consult overnight. Ultimately it is about a fairness of a trial,’ the judge explained.
State prosecutor Advocate Greg Wolmarans informed the court that, while the Hawks’ cross examination would be postponed until next week, the state is prepared to present a fresh witness.
According to Wolmarans, the person testifying is under witness protection and is the final witness in the attempted murder of Booth.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Also read:
Modack trial: Ex-cop warned of Kinnear’s danger, struggled to alert authorities
Picture: Jaco Marais / Gallo Images