Calls for media to be barred from #SandileMantsoe proceedings

Karabo Mokoena's alleged killer, who is also suspected to be her boyfriend, will appear in court this morning. Picture: Twitter

Karabo Mokoena's alleged killer, who is also suspected to be her boyfriend, will appear in court this morning. Picture: Twitter

Published May 24, 2017

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Johannesburg – Members of the public will have to wait until Wednesday middday to know if application to broadcast Sandile Mantsoe's bail hearing was successful.

This after Magistrate Karel Labuschagne adjourned court for an hour in order to make a ruling on whether media houses will be allowed to film and take images during the bail application.

Mantsoe was making his second appearance in relation with the murder of ex-girlfriend Karabo Mokoena.

Mokoena went missing on April 28, her disappearance becoming the subject of a social media trend as users searched for her whereabouts.

Her charred remains were discovered in a shallow grave in Lyndhurst, east of the city.

He was charged with premeditated murder, which if convicted of, carries a life sentence.

Mantsoe also faces a second charge of defeating the ends of justice.

He is yet to plead.

Prosecutor John Metswamere, arguing for the State, wanted the media to be barred completely from proceedings.

Metswamere argued that some witnesses may not wish to appear on camera and allowing the broadcast will lead to the identification of these witnesses.

This view was supported by Mantsoe's defence, which argued that filming proceedings will result in the courtroom becoming a circus; much like Mantsoe's initial appearance.

Furthermore, Mantsoe's lawyer argued that sensitive information contained in his affidavit could be revealed if the media is present.

Other court officials say they were not opposed to the broadcasting of the proceedings.

Court will resume at 12pm for a ruling.

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