By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The son of legendary songwriter Chicco Twala, Longwe, has been released on warning by the Randburg Magistrate Court.
He was arrested earlier this year for breaking into his father’s home and stealing items worth R200 000. He was later released on warning and told to appear in October.
He didn’t show up and was rearrested last month.
Twala appeared at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing charges of contempt of court but was released with a stern warning.
Explaining his earlier no-show, Twala’s legal team claimed he had fallen ill and asked a family member to let his lawyers know he could not appear in court.
The aunt reportedly forgot to do so, sparking court action that led to a warrant of arrest being issued.
The presiding magistrate said the excuse was “reasonable”.
“I am left here with an explanation that the accused [Twala] gives. It must be a reasonable explanation as to why he did not come to court. If he gives an explanation that appears to be reasonable, whether I believe him or not is not important.
“Whether the aunt called or not, I do not know. There is no evidence to the effect.”
“So, I cannot find that the accused [Twala] broke any bail conditions. For that reason, the court accepts his explanation and his warning is extended”.
Twala was warned that if he skipped any more court dates he would be kept in custody. He will appear in court again on February 5.