The Pretoria High Court has denied former Crime Intelligence Division Commissioner, Lieutenant General Richard Mdluli, a postponement in his ongoing trial. Mdluli had sought a delay while awaiting the outcome of his appeal against the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) refusal to cover his legal costs.
The court not only dismissed Mdluli’s appeal against SAPS’ decision but also saw his attorney withdraw due to a lack of funds. The prosecutor from the Investigating Directorate Anti-Corruption (IDAC) argued against the delay, emphasizing the prolonged duration of the case and its impact on the other accused, who indicated their readiness to proceed.
In delivering his decision, Judge M. Makamu agreed with IDAC’s stance, noting that the extensive delays prejudice co-accused Heine Barnard, former SAPS Supply Chain Manager, and Solomon Lazarus, former SAPS Chief Financial Officer. Judge Makamu remarked on the uncertain path Mdluli’s appeal might take, which could involve the Supreme Court of Appeal or even the Constitutional Court if necessary.
The judge has postponed the case until Tuesday, 5 November 2024, granting Mdluli time to approach Legal Aid South Africa to determine if he qualifies for assistance.
Mdluli, Barnard, and Lazarus face charges of corruption, fraud, and theft connected to the SAPS’ secret slush fund between 2008 and 2012 during their tenure with the Crime Intelligence Services.
