Explosive allegations have been made Mogotsi attempted to influence state witnesses from behind bars. He appeared in court on Monday (22/6), seeking his release after his initial bail application was denied earlier this month.

The matter was postponed to 29 June for judgment while Mogotsi remains behind bars. The latest proceedings revealed allegations contained in an affidavit by investigating officer Alfred Odendaal. 

He raised concerns about alleged witness interference, a suspected falsified lease agreement, and attempts to influence individuals expected to testify for the state.

‘Assistance of his wife’

State prosecutor Thami Mpekana told the court Mogotsi had allegedly maintained contact with state witness Thandiwe Senokowane while in custody, with the assistance of his wife. 

The court heard she had told investigators she felt threatened after repeated visits to her home. According to Odendaal’s statement, the witness contacted him on 12 June to report another incident.

“On 5 June, while Dorothy Lekgwaba was at her house, she received a call and handed the phone to her. It was Brown Mogotsi speaking to her. I am now of the view that the applicant will interfere with witnesses directly and indirectly to supply false statements.”

Senokowane was then advised to open a criminal case after allegedly feeling intimidated by ongoing contact from individuals connected to the accused.

Mogotsi’s legal representative, Nthabiseng Mohomane, rejected the allegations and accused the state of attempting to tarnish her client’s image to keep him incarcerated. 

She urged the court to regard the intimidation claims as part of a deliberate effort to prejudice the court against Mogotsi.

The controversy surrounding Mogotsi’s residential address also resurfaced during proceedings. His first bail application was dismissed on 4 June after the court found he had failed to provide a verifiable residential address in Mahikeng. It remains a crucial factor in determining whether Mogotsi qualifies for bail.

Mogotsi faces five charges, including perjury, defeating the ends of justice, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a public place, and allegedly attempting to bribe an investigating officer.

The charges stem from allegations he orchestrated a fake assassination attempt against himself in Vosloorus, Ekurhuleni, in November.

OFM News/KekeletsoMosebetsi dg

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