When the Senzo Meyiwa trial resumed on Monday, police officer Batho Mogola, a state witness, testified that Muzi Sibiya, accused number one, nearly confessed to his involvement in the 2014 murder of the Bafana Bafana captain.
Senzo Meyiwa trial: Court hears how Muzi Sibiya almost confessed
Sergeant Batho Mogola, with 18 years of service in the South African Police Service and currently attached to the Cold Case investigation unit, provided her account in the Pretoria High Court.
She detailed the arrest procedure of Muzi Sibiya and his interactions with police officers during that time.
During the arrest by Constables Sadiki and Jabulani Buthelezi, Sibiya was concerned about his clothing and expressed fear about losing them in jail. Buthelezi testified they agreed to Sibiya’s request to change his trousers, countering Sibiya’s lawyer’s claims of torture and mistreatment.
Mogola recounted the discovery of ammunition, a magazine, and a cleaning rod at Sibiya’s residence, leading to further questioning about the presence of a gun, which Sibiya claimed was at a friend’s place.
In a private moment with Sibiya, while informing him of his rights, Mogola asked about his involvement in the Meyiwa murder. Sibiya’s response indicated a near-admission, prompting Mogola to remind him of his constitutional rights.
Mogola also mentioned discussing other cases with Sibiya, who expressed willingness to communicate with her boss, Brigadier Bongani Gininda. The decision was made to meet at the Vosloorus police station for further questioning by Gininda.
The Senzo Meyiwa trial resumes on Tuesday.