On Tuesday, Sergeant Batho Mogola faced intense scrutiny during cross-examination, particularly regarding her involvement in the arrests and investigations of the accused.
Senzo Meyiwa trial: Sgt Mogola grilled on questionable arrest procedures
Sgt Mogola, a significant figure in the Senzo Meyiwa trial, was questioned in-depth about her involvement in the arrest of Muzi Sibiya (Accused 1) and the investigation of Bongani Ntanzi (Accused 2).
Her cross-examination centered around his actions and observations during these pivotal moments of the case.
Mogola provided detailed accounts of the booking procedures for Sibiya, vehemently confirmating that proper procedures followed, despite repeated claims from the defence suggesting the accused was tortured and inhumanely detained, a claim that was rubbished by previous state witnesses.
She also discussed a key incident involving the discovery of unlicensed ammunition at the residence of Accused 2, which inevitably led to his arrest.
Advocate George Baloyi delved into the specifics of Sgt Mogola’s activities, focusing on the events surrounding the arrests of the accused.
The defense, represented by Advocate Thulani Mngomezulu, challenged the legitimacy of the arrest procedures and the credibility of the evidence provided by Sgt Mogola.
In a bid to break Mogola’s confident posture, Mngomezulu flung allegations of police misconduct, including assault, which the seasoned sergeant did not reciprocate.
Mogola, instead, defended the actions of the police and rubbished any notion suggesting Ntanzi and Sibiya were tortured.
Mogola is expected back on the witness stand when the Senzo Meyiwa trial resumes on Wednesday.