Political fixer Brown Mogotsi, who appeared briefly in court on Monday after spending a week in police custody, has denied allegations that he faked his own assassination.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
Political fixer Brown Mogotsi has denied all charges against him, telling the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court the case against him is based on “speculation” and weak claims.
Mogotsi is applying for bail after his arrest nearly two weeks ago on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, defeating the ends of justice and perjury.
The charges relate to allegations that he staged a hit on his own life in November last year.
During a bail hearing, State prosecutor Adv. Thami Mpekana told the court that investigators could not verify an address that Mogotsi allegedly provided through his lawyers.
Reading from the investigating officer’s affidavit, Mpekana said police visited an address in Mmabatho, North West, but were told that Mogotsi did not live there.
“At the address, I found Thandiwe, and I enquired about Mogotsi. She told me the applicant does not reside at the address,” the affidavit read.
The state also claimed investigators struggled to contact Mogotsi before his appearance at the Madlanga Commission despite repeated calls and messages.
Prosecutors further alleged he previously gave authorities a false address during a 2007 investigation.
Mogotsi’s lawyer, William Sekatja, rejected the claims and insisted the correct details had been provided.
“The address is positive. I even sent a pin location to the investigating officer via WhatsApp,” Sekatja told the court.
Mogotsi maintained his innocence and told the court he could afford R10,000 bail.
The hearing continues.
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