BLOEMFONTEIN – Controversial Bloemfontein businessman Thulani Qithi (40) remains behind bars following his arrest and appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court regarding alleged domestic violence. He briefly appeared in court – Thursday, 19 March.
Police investigations continue into the reported domestic violence. Qithi is director of TQ Consulting.
Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the National Prosecution Authority in the Free State, says the man was charged with assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH) and two counts of common assault.
“All involve the same complainant in a matter relating to domestic violence,” he says. Senokoatsane says the Bloemfontein’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit investigations established sufficient evidence to warrant Githi’s arrest and subsequent court appearance.
He says the matter was postponed to 25 March for a possible bail application while Qithi was remained in custody pending his next court appearance,” says Senokoatsane.
Senokoatsane has further warned against social media statements implying the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Free State was “captured”.
“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Free State has noted with concern recent social media statements attributed to Qithi, in which allegations are made that the NPA has been “captured” and that he will not receive justice in his cases.
“The DPP treats such allegations with the utmost seriousness. All prosecutorial decisions are based on the evidence contained in the police docket and are made in accordance with the law. Furthermore, the NPA has multiple levels of decision-making, as well as internal review mechanisms available to both accused persons and victims of crime,” says Senokoatsane.
“Members of the public are urged to refrain from making reckless and unsubstantiated allegations that may bring the criminal justice system into disrepute. The NPA wishes to reassure the people of the Free State that it remains a credible and independent institution, committed to upholding the rule of law and administering justice without fear, favour, or prejudice,” says Senokoatsane.
