By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GalloImages.
Orlando Pirates star Thembinkosi Lorch has been found guilty of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm for strangling and hitting his girlfriend three years ago.
Lorch appeared in the Randburg magistrate’s court on Tuesday
He was arrested in Midrand in September 2020 -and was later released on R2000 bail.
“Fundiswa Nokuphiwa Mathithibala said she was visiting Lorch when he left her at his home to go out with his friend. Mathithibala saw that it was getting late and messaged him to return her car keys,” said NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
“On arrival, an argument ensued and Lorch became violent towards her and started to strangle her, beat her whilst pulling her up and down. She called for help and his friend came to her rescue.”
State prosecutor,Ms Michele Hart argued that the medical evidence corroborated the evidence of the complainant.
“The accused did not have any injuries which meant that he was the aggressor. The accused and his witness did not create a good impression in court and appeared to be not credible witnesses,” said Mjonondwane.
The case has been postponed to 28 July for sentencing proceedings.