The State has opposed bail for alleged political fixer Brown Mogotsi during his appearance in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Mogotsi is facing five charges, including allegations that he orchestrated his own assassination attempt in Vosloorus in November last year. The case has attracted significant public interest due to Mogotsi’s alleged political connections and the unusual circumstances surrounding the alleged shooting.
During the bail proceedings, State prosecutor Thami Mpekana argued that Mogotsi should remain in custody pending trial. Mpekana told the court that investigations had revealed discrepancies in the residential address provided by the accused.
“We established that he did not ever reside at this address he provided,” Mpekana said.
“The applicant was previously circulated by authorities as a wanted person.”
The prosecutor argued that Mogotsi poses a flight risk and could evade the judicial process if released on bail. He further expressed concerns that the accused may interfere with the administration of justice, alleging that Mogotsi had previously attempted to bribe an officer of the court.
“Taking the above into consideration, it is clear there is a likelihood that he may abscond trial,” Mpekana told the court.
According to the State, Mogotsi also has a previous criminal record. Prosecutors informed the court that he was convicted of assault and reckless driving in 2012, factors they believe should weigh against the granting of bail.
However, Mogotsi’s legal representative, Makau Sekgatja, rejected the State’s assertions and maintained that his client had cooperated fully with investigators. Sekgatja said Mogotsi denies allegations that he falsely claimed there had been an attempt on his life.
“Such allegation is unfounded, speculative and inconsistent with the facts that transpired. I further submit that on the date of the incident I was not found with a firearm or ammunition, nor did I fire shots,” Sekgatja said on behalf of his client.
The defence also argued that Mogotsi is not a flight risk and has no intention of evading trial.
The charges stem from an alleged assassination attempt reported in Vosloorus in November. Investigators later questioned the circumstances surrounding the incident, leading to allegations that the attack may have been staged. Authorities subsequently charged Mogotsi with multiple offences linked to the matter.
The verdict on the bail hearing will beard on Thursday after Mogotsi’s residencial address has been verified, again.
