Suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya's bail application continued at the Randburg Magistrates' Court. The State presented evidence relating to his alleged conduct towards a 16-year-old girl. Advocate Rashad Moosa was cross-examined by the State during the proceedings. Sibiya's legal team read a supporting affidavit from his son Ofentse Saul Sibiya, who claimed he was denied access to speak to his father during his arrest.
The son's affidavit stated that he received numerous calls about his father's arrest and referred to Bishop Maumela, who allegedly spoke to the complainant in the case. Maumela was said to be providing spiritual support to the family and had not been asked by the family to speak to the complainant. The investigating officer in Sibiya's case presented WhatsApp exchanges between Sibiya and the 16-year-old girl before the court. Sibiya faces charges including rape, sexual grooming, and human trafficking.
The State alleges that Sibiya made repeated sexual advances towards the daughter of a close associate. The investigating officer told the court that Sibiya asked the teenager to send him a nude video. After receiving the video, Sibiya allegedly complimented the teenager, telling her: “You look hot.” This exchange was part of the evidence presented by the investigating officer.
The investigating officer also presented WhatsApp exchanges involving Sibiya, the 16-year-old girl, and an 18-year-old woman relating to events at The Grand in Sandton. Witness statements allege that the girls were plied with alcohol, asked to twerk, and given more alcohol when they refused. One of the girls allegedly eventually passed out. These allegations were presented as part of the State's case against Sibiya.
Sibiya's legal team argued that disciplinary hearings against him were relevant to the bail application. Advocate Moosa was cross-examined by the State during the proceedings. The bail application continues, with the court still to consider the evidence presented. Sibiya's son's affidavit was part of the defense's strategy to challenge the State's case.
The case against Sibiya involves multiple charges, including rape, sexual grooming, and human trafficking. The State alleges that Sibiya used his position to make repeated sexual advances towards the 16-year-old girl. The WhatsApp exchanges presented in court are key evidence in the case. The investigating officer's testimony provided further details on the allegations against Sibiya.
The bail application will continue, with the court to consider the evidence presented by both the State and Sibiya's legal team. The outcome of the application will determine whether Sibiya remains in custody or is released on bail pending his trial. The case has raised concerns about the conduct of a high-ranking police official and the alleged abuse of power.
Key points
- Sibiya faces charges including rape, sexual grooming, and human trafficking.
- The State alleges that Sibiya made repeated sexual advances towards a 16-year-old girl.
- The bail application continues at the Randburg Magistrates' Court.
