JOHANNESBURG – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) of South Africa has welcomed the decision of the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court to deny bail to high-profile businessman Brown Oupa Mogotsi – extending the alleged political fixer’s stay behind bars. His bid for bail was heard yesterday – Thursday, following his arrest last month on 15 May. Mogotsi’s arrest stems from allegations that he staged his own assassination attempt.
Magaboke Mohlatlole, spokesperson for the NPA Gauteng Division in Johannesburg, said in a media statement that the State opposed bail on several grounds. “These include allegations that the accused failed to cooperate with investigators, evaded law enforcement authorities, provided contradictory and unverifiable residential addresses, and allegedly attempted to improperly influence the investigating officer,” he said.
Mohlatlole said the court further found that Mogotsi had failed to satisfy the requirements for his release and that the interests of justice did not permit his release on bail.
The court noted concerns regarding the addresses provided by the accused, finding that he had failed to establish a verifiable fixed address. The court further found that this created a risk that the accused may not stand trial if released,” he said.
Mohlatlole said the politically connected North West businessman remains in custody pending his next court appearance on 12 June for disclosure of the contents of the docket and the setting of a trial date.
Mogotsi is one of the central figures in the Madlanga Commission investigations into corruption, criminality, and political interference within South Africa’s police and justice system. He is facing multiple charges arising from an alleged staged shooting incident in Vosloorus. The charges include unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, defeating or obstructing the course of justice and perjury.
The State alleges that Mogotsi staged a shooting incident involving his own vehicle and subsequently made false statements to the police and under oath regarding the circumstances of the incident.
“The NPA reiterates that the denial of bail underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the court’s role in ensuring that justice is not undermined,” said Mohlatlole.
