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The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has successfully opposed the release on bail of businessman Siphiwo Mngxali (51), the estranged husband of a Mthatha doctor.
Mngxali is facing two counts of attempted murder, theft, and breach of a protection order.
According to information from the NPA, it is alleged that on the night of February 26, 2023, Mngxali and an accomplice stole items including television sets and bar fridges from a property operating as a B&B establishment in the suburb of Fort Gale in Mthatha.
During the alleged theft, shots were fired towards a helper and her partner, who were sleeping in the property.
Prior to the alleged theft, the accused’s estranged wife had been granted an interim protection order by the court, preventing him from entering these premises.
“The court agreed with the prosecutor’s submissions that Mngxali had failed to adduce evidence that it was in the interest of justice for him to be released on bail, as the onus was on him as the applicant in a Schedule 5 matter.
“The court found that the prosecution had been able to place Mngxali at the scene of the alleged crimes through several witnesses, including an affidavit from his estranged wife who is allegedly in hiding fearing for her life. Further, the court rejected his contention that he was in East London and stressed that he was a danger to his family, the witnesses and himself, as evidence was led that he had threatened to kill his entire family and commit suicide,” said NPA regional spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali.
“It is paramount for the NPA to meet its commitment to protect victims of gender-based violence and to ensure justice for them. This outcome, albeit being a preliminary protective measure, means that the doctor and her family will not feel threatened or victimised by the perpetrator until the matter is brought to trial,” added Tyali.
Mngxali has been in custody since his arrest on March 8.
