In a dramatic development, Prophet Paseka Mboro Motsoeneng, his bodyguard Vincent Baloyi, and a relative were denied bail and will remain in custody. The case, which has captured significant public attention, was postponed to October 21.
**Court Ruling and Case Details**
The decision to deny bail was announced by Magistrate Katlego Mokwena, who expressed dissatisfaction with the arguments presented by the state regarding the bail application. Mokwena stated that Mboro and Baloyi did not sufficiently justify why they should be granted bail, while the investigating officers failed to provide compelling reasons for denying bail to the third accused, a relative.
The charges against the trio, who appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court on August 19, include kidnapping, possession of dangerous weapons, discharging firearms, assault, and malicious damage to property. The violent incident occurred at Matsediso Primary School in Katlehong on August 5, which was captured on video and widely shared on social media. This incident also led to the burning of Mboro’s tent church the following day.
**Defense and Prosecution Arguments**
During the bail hearing, Mboro appeared visibly distressed, shaking his head and displaying a range of facial expressions that suggested his belief in his innocence. His defense lawyer, Phillip Dlamini, argued that Mboro and his co-accused did not pose a threat to the community. Dlamini highlighted that Mboro had held church services in the past two weeks, indicating community support despite the recent troubles.
Dlamini further contended that the accusations of kidnapping were unfounded, explaining that the children involved were Mboro’s grandchildren, whom he had taken to school and later retrieved. He emphasized that Mboro had acted out of concern for his son, who was reportedly under attack.
However, State Prosecutor Pheello Vilakazi challenged the credibility of the accused, pointing out inconsistencies and previous legal troubles of Mboro, including nine prior arrests, though most cases were withdrawn or are still under investigation. Vilakazi argued that granting bail could undermine public trust and jeopardize the investigation, particularly since the accused had not provided information on the whereabouts of a rifle involved in the case.
**Public and Legal Reactions**
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokeswoman, Phindi Mjonondwane, supported the court’s decision, noting that Mboro and Baloyi had not met the burden of proving that their release on bail would serve justice. Mjonondwane emphasized that the evidence presented by the state was deemed sufficient to warrant the continued detention of the accused.
As the case continues to unfold, the decision to deny bail reflects the seriousness of the charges and the concerns about public safety and the integrity of the ongoing investigation. The court’s stance underscores the gravity of the allegations and the potential implications for the community and justice system.