By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg, on Wednesday, 29 June 2026 has dismissed an urgent bail appeal application of political fixer Oupa Brown Mogotsi.
Mogotsi approached the court after two failed bail applications at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.
His first application was denied over what the court said were inconsistencies in his home address.He then brought a fresh bid on what his lawyers said was based on new facts, which was also dismissed.
He is accused of faking an assassination targeting him in Vosloorus last year. Preliminary investigations show that the firearm used in that shooting is linked to other pending violent crimes.
He was arrested on May 15 arrested after appearing before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The commission is investigating accusations that a cartel has infiltrated SA’s criminal justice system, politics and private security.
The political fixer is facing charges of perjury, defeating the ends of justice and unlawful possession of a firearm.
The ruling was handed down by Judge Nelisa Mali on Wednesday, 29 July 2026, following arguments presented by both the prosecution and defence during proceedings held the last week.
“The high court found that he failed to present any new facts to justify reconsideration of bail and dismissed the appeal.”
Part of the State’s argument against bail was that Mogotsi did not cooperate with investigators and was difficult to reach when the investigating officer attempted to contact him. On one occasion, he agreed to a meeting with him, but never arrived. His legal team argued that this was because he didn’t trust that the person on the phone was a police officer.
The State argued that on another occasion, Mogotsi allegedly attempted to bribe the officer shortly after his arrest.
The matter has been adjourned to 12 June 2026 for a trial date.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole says the prosecution is delighted that the court has ruled against Mogotsi.
“The NPA has successfully opposed an urgent bail appeal brought by businessman Oupa Brown Mogotsi in the Gauteng Division of the High Court, Johannesburg.”