The State’s concerns over possible witness intimidation have become a key issue in former deputy national police commissioner Shadrack Sibiya’s bid for release on bail, with a court hearing an allegation that he threatened the family of a 16-year-old.
The Randburg Magistrates’ Court heard the allegation on Tuesday after prosecutor Velile Makasana presented an affidavit from the minor’s father, who claimed that Sibiya threatened to harm his family.
According to the affidavit, the father alleged that Sibiya became angry and warned him that he knew his entire family and could “wipe out” all of them.
The father said the alleged threats had left him in constant fear for his family’s safety.
The evidence was presented as the State continued to oppose Sibiya’s release, arguing that he could intimidate witnesses or interfere with the case if granted bail.
Sibiya is accused of sexually grooming a 16-year-old and raping an 18-year-old woman. The allegations have not been proven in court.
The proceedings have now stretched over three weeks, with the prosecution seeking to persuade the court that Sibiya’s release could pose risks to witnesses and the integrity of the case.
The affidavit from the minor’s father adds to the State’s arguments against bail, placing the safety of the alleged victim’s family among the issues before the court.
Sibiya’s bail application is expected to continue on Wednesday.