The assault case against Orlando Pirates star Thembinkosi Lorch has been postponed following his brief appearance at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday after his lawyer said the defence was not ready for pre-sentencing arguments. The sentencing proceedings have been postponed to 4 September. The unavailability of electricity at the Randburg Magistrates Court also contributed to the postponement of his sentencing.
Lorch was found guilty of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm last month. The NPA Gauteng Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the defendant told the court they were not ready for sentencing because Lorch was out of the country.
Lorch was arrested after his then girlfriend Fundiswa Mathithibala, lodged a complaint at Midrand Police Station in 2020. This followed an argument at his home in Midrand wherein she alleged that he strangled her.
The state said Mathithibala’s claims are supported by a medical report. Lorch, who was accompanied by a friend, refused to speak to the media.
