Gideon Mandindi, Molebatsi Modisenyane, Mohlomi Ramaphiri and Seabelo Mogopodi were applying for bail, following their arrests. Courtroom 20, where the three constables and captain appeared, was full to capacity with their fellow police officials and some family members. 

The four men who are between the ages of 31 and 58, are alleged to have robbed a shop owner in Kopanong, Phase 3, last week, taking R25 000 in cash, cigarettes and a cell phone. 

OFM News’ this morning reported that only three police officers were apprehended for the crime. There is no indication as to when the fourth police officer – the captain - was arrested. Some tension developed during proceedings between the prosecution and legal counsel for the accused.

Once proceedings got underway, prosecutor, Advocate Johan De Vries, indicated the state’s intention to oppose bail for the four men, something which legal counsel for the accused questioned. They further added that it is not clear if the state opposed bail entirely or intended on postponing proceedings for further information and investigations. De Vries stressed that if the state does not oppose bail it would look to the community as if it is favouring the policemen. The case was then stood down for deliberations. Following the adjournment, the parties agreed to have the matter postponed to Wednesday, October 10, for the bail applications.

OFM News/Josca Human and Olebogeng Motse