Private security officials and members of the South African Services (SAPS), including the Tactical Response Team (TRT), amongst others, are keeping a watchful eye around the premises. Magashule, Mlamleli and others are making their first appearance in court this year after their last appearance in 2020. The metro has also decided to close two busy streets leading to the court as many Magashule supporters are expected to descend on the court in support of the ANC's SG. One of the suspects in the failed R255 million asbestos project, Mlamleli, is the first suspect to be seen inside the court premises as the court proceedings are expected to start soon.

Three more suspects, who were nabbed by the Hawks on Thursday morning in relation to the asbestos deal, will also make their first court appearances on Friday. The identity of the three are not yet known and will be revealed once they make their appearance before the court.

Those who will be in the dock include the CEO of Blackhead Consulting, Edwin Sodi, as well as the former Free State Human Settlements HOD, Nthimotse Mokhesi, and the department's former national Director-General Thabane Zulu, amongst other government officials.

They stand accused of looting funds that were earmarked to see the assessment, audit and removal of asbestos roofs in the province in 2014 when the housing tender was awarded. The suspects are out on bail ranging from R50 000 to R500 000.

OFM News