During Friday’s proceedings in the ongoing Senzo Meyiwa trial, the defence challenged the accuracy of GPS data, suggesting an alleged assault location has since been transformed into a shopping complex.
Senzo Meyiwa trial: GPS data points to non-existent assault location
Vehicle tracking expert Michael du Preez faced cross-examination regarding GPS data from the escort vehicle transporting the accused. The defence aimed to connect the GPS stops with Bongani Ntanzi’s allegations of being beaten and tortured by the police.
Two of the five men accused in the 2014 murder of footballer Senzo Meyiwa, Ntanzi and Muzi Sibiya, allege severe assault and torture by police to coerce their confession statements.
Among these claims, Ntanzi asserts he was assaulted near Heidelberg Road on the way to Moroka Police Station to sign a confession.
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The GPS data presented in court indicated a stop at Newmarket Park Mall, about three kilometres from a dumping site where Ntanzi claimed the assault occurred.
The defence argued that the area, now housing developments including a Nandos, was vacant in 2020, suggesting the GPS data may not align with the alleged assault site.
Defence attorney Mngomezulu expressed intentions to obtain records confirming the timeline of the area’s development, challenging the implications of the GPS data presented.
The Senzo Meyiwa trial will resume on Monday.