KNYSNA NEWS - The bail hearing of four suspects accused of the vigilante killing of Athinkosi Jonas (28) has once again been postponed.
The three men and one woman appeared in the Knysna Magistrate's Court on 28 August, where the bail applications of accused 1, 3 and 4 were heard.
Accused 2 had initially chosen not to apply for bail. However, as proceedings were nearing conclusion, he changed his mind and indicated his intention to apply for bail.
This unexpected development led to a postponement, and the matter resumed on Monday 1 September, to allow for legal consultation and finalisation of the application.
Hopes were high that the bail hearing would be concluded on Monday, but accused 2 requested a Tsonga translator, stating he could not understand isiXhosa.
As a result, the case was further postponed to today, Thursday 4 September, to make translation arrangements.
The state has firmly opposed bail for all four accused, citing concerns for the safety of state witnesses, who are allegedly well known to the accused.
Athinkosi Jonas. Photo supplied
The state also presented a petition signed by members of the community objecting to the suspects being released on bail, citing fears of intimidation and further unrest.
Athinkosi Jonas' body was discovered on 1 August in the Nekkies area with multiple injuries. He was declared dead on the scene. All four suspects were arrested later that same day and made their first court appearance on 4 August. The accused are remanded in custody.
Read previous articles:
No bail for murder accused, asks community | Knysna-Plett Herald
Jonas murder accused remain in custody | Knysna-Plett Herald
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
