The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial continues today at the Pretoria High Court, following the court’s approval for a dental examination of one of the accused.
What to expect from the Senzo Meyiwa trial today
This development came after lengthy arguments focused on whether accused number three, Mthobisi Mncube, should be examined to determine if he ever had a gold tooth, as shown in a photograph presented by the prosecution.
The photograph was recently introduced by the state as part of evidence linking Mncube to witness descriptions of an intruder on the night of Meyiwa’s murder in October 2014.
Witnesses had previously stated that one of the assailants had a gold tooth. The photo, extracted from Mncube’s mobile phone, depicts a man with what appears to be a gold tooth, dreadlocks, and wearing a striped t-shirt.
Advocate Charles Mnisi, representing Mncube, argued that the dental examination is necessary for a fair trial.
He pointed out that the defence was not aware this image would be used as key evidence, despite the state being in possession of the material for several years.
Mnisi highlighted that the sudden presentation of this evidence puts his client at a disadvantage and requested time to prepare a rebuttal.
Mnisi also informed the court that Mncube no longer trusts the state and therefore wants the examination done by a private dentist. According to Mnisi, Mncube cited various issues in the trial that contributed to his loss of confidence in state processes.
The defence asked for an adjournment to determine the cost of securing a private dental evaluation.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng granted the request for a dental examination and agreed to an adjournment to allow time to gather cost details. However, the judge did not specify whether the examination would be conducted by a state-appointed medical officer or a private practitioner.
Mnisi will provide further information on the potential costs when court resumes.
Other defence lawyers, including advocates Sipho Ramosepele and Zandile Mshololo, indicated they would be unavailable for the day due to prior commitments.
Despite this, the proceedings are expected to move forward with other aspects of the case.
State prosecutor Advocate Ronnie Sibanda opposed the application for the dental exam. He argued that the photographic evidence was based on an observation by Sergeant Moses Mabasa, who is not an identifying witness but rather an analyst. Sibanda maintained that if the defence challenges Mabasa’s interpretation of the image, the correct approach would be to cross-examine him directly.
Judge Mokgoatlheng adjourned the matter to Thursday, allowing the defence more time to make necessary arrangements.
The trial remains focused on verifying whether the photographic evidence can be credibly linked to the events that took place in Vosloorus, where Senzo Meyiwa was fatally shot.
Watch the Senzo Meyiwa trial live here
Today’s session will follow up on logistical and legal considerations surrounding the dental examination of Mncube and whether it will influence the direction of the evidence currently under scrutiny.
Tune into proceedings below:
