By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The National Prosecuting Authority on Saturday has confirmed that Brigadier Philani Ndlovu has passed away, but said he was not regarded as a key witness in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial.
“His role was limited to his presence at the place of the incident and the management of the crime scene. It should be noted that his statement had not been obtained by the investigators,” said the NPA in a statement.
“There are several other witnesses who will give relevant evidence on the merits of the case. The State is still confident that it has sufficient evidence to ensure a successful prosecution in this case,” it added.
This comes just weeks before the trial is expected to resume in the High Court in Pretoria
Ndlovu was identified by a state witness as one of the first people to respond to the scene where Meyiwa was murdered and was expected to appear as the State’s witness.
The Meyiwa murder trial is expected to resume on 30 May, after the last session ended on a dramatic note with advocate Malesela Teffo, who is representing four of the suspects in the murder trial, getting arrested.
Sifisokuhle Ntuli, Muzikawukhulelwa Sthemba Sibiya, Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Ncube, and Mthokoziseni Ziphozonke Maphisa – who are charged with murdering the Bafana Bafana captain in Vosloorus in 2014 – will remain behind bars until the next appearance.
The suspects are already serving various sentences for convictions in other unrelated cases.
When the court resumes on 30 May, the cross-examination will continue with advocate Zandile Mshololo, representing the fifth accused, Ntuli, taking the stand.