Sibiya’s Lawyer Denies Attempt To Help Him Evade Arrest
Shadrack Sibiya’s lawyer has denied allegations that he attempted to help the embattled senior police officer evade arrest as the State opposed his bail application.
One of the lawyers representing suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya has denied attempting to help his client evade arrest.
Sibiya’s attorney, Rishaad Moosa, was cross-examined by the State on Thursday during the police officer’s bail hearing at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court.
Sibiya faces allegations of sexually grooming a 16-year-old girl and raping an 18-year-old woman. The allegations have not been tested in court.
State Questions Sibiya’s Knowledge Of Arrest
The State has been questioning Moosa, who was called to Sibiya’s home during a police raid shortly after his arrest last week.
Prosecutors told the court they are in possession of documentation which they say indicates that Sibiya knew about his imminent arrest before it took place.
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The State further alleged that, with the assistance of his lawyer, Sibiya wrote to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) seeking information about the criminal investigation against him.
However, Sibiya’s lawyer, Estelle Killian, said the correspondence was intended to obtain clarity about claims that her client was under investigation.
“The witness has clearly said he wrote to the NPA to avoid a spectacle. Not to run away from arrest and the law.”
State Raises Concerns Over Witnesses
The State also raised allegations involving Sibiya’s close friend, Bishop Hangwisani Maumela.
Prosecutors claim Maumela may have attempted to intimidate witnesses, including the father of the 16-year-old girl.
The State argued that Sibiya is not a suitable candidate for release on bail.
The bail application is continuing, with the court expected to consider the State’s arguments alongside Sibiya’s defence.
