The defence in the Phakiso Molise and Thabiso Mothobi escape from lawful custody case, which was to have been heard before the Maser Magistrate's Court this week, has asked for a postponement, granted and set for August 16 by Magistrate Lesala Nthabi.

Advocate Thulo Hoeane, representing Mothobi asked for the postponement because Molise had only been able to acquire the services of a legal representative, Advocate Zwelakhe Mda, on the morning the case had been set to be heard, July 5.

Postponement should be granted so as to enable Advocate Mda to make proper consultations with Second Lieutenant Molise. When the case was set down for hearing, the first accused Molise did not have legal representation, he said.

Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Leaba Thetsane recorded the prosecution's concern, showing how the first remand date was March 29 and that July 5 had been set to allow the accused to secure legal representation. While he was not suggesting the case should proceed when the accused is not prepared, the prosecution has always been the one accused of delaying cases.

The former Second Lieutenant is accused of escaping from lawful custody on August 27, 2003 when he being taken for medical treatment at Queen Elizabeth II hospital, while his co-accused, Mothobi is accused of assisting him to escape.

Molise is currently serving a 15 years jail term in connection with the 1995 police riots. Mothobi is standing trial in connection with the murdering of the former Regional Manager of Precious Garments factory, Mr. Peter Mokheseng.

05 July 2005