The Western Cape High Court heard evidence from Yannick Adonis, a co-accused in the Nafiz Modack trial, who faced questions over the alleged hand-grenade attack on Charl Kinnear, a murdered Anti-Gang Unit detective. Adonis declined to answer some questions, saying "Ek wil nie" and "No comment". This led Judge Robert Henney to warn Adonis about the consequences of refusing to answer questions while giving evidence.
Cellphone evidence was a key focus of the questioning, with prosecutor Greg Wolmarans cross-examining Adonis about the alleged hand-grenade attack and what happened after Amaal Jantjies allegedly acquired the grenade. The court was shown phone call transcripts between Jantjies and Adonis, including a conversation where Jantjies mentioned using gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints.
Wolmarans's questioning centered on what happened after Jantjies acquired the hand grenade, who "Mammokie" was, and who she allegedly delivered the hand grenade to. Adonis's refusal to answer some questions led Judge Henney to issue a warning. The court had previously heard evidence that Adonis was instructed to recruit individuals to throw a hand grenade at Kinnear's house, which Adonis denied.
The Modack trial involves 15 accused, including Nafiz Modack and Yannick Adonis, who face charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, racketeering, fraud, and money laundering. The case relates to the September 2020 murder of Kinnear and other alleged offences. The trial is ongoing, with the court hearing evidence from various witnesses.
The alleged plot to throw a hand grenade at Kinnear's home was just one aspect of the broader case against Modack and his co-accused. The court has heard evidence of a larger conspiracy involving multiple individuals and crimes. The prosecution's case relies heavily on cellphone evidence and witness testimony.
The judge's warning to Adonis highlights the importance of cooperation and truthful testimony in the trial. The court will continue to hear evidence and consider the testimony of various witnesses. The Modack trial is a significant case in South Africa, with many charges and alleged crimes at stake.
The trial's progression will be closely watched, as it involves high-profile charges and a complex web of alleged crimes. The court will ultimately determine the guilt or innocence of Modack and his co-accused. The case has significant implications for the South African justice system and those involved.
Key points
- The judge warned Yannick Adonis about the consequences of refusing to answer questions while giving evidence.
- Cellphone evidence played a crucial role in the questioning of Adonis.
- The Modack trial involves multiple charges, including murder, conspiracy, and racketeering.
