Africa-Press – South-Africa. The Durban police officer accused of killing two women who he was allegedly dating at the same time has asked the magistrate in his case to recuse herself.
This came after it was revealed in court on Monday that the parent of one of the victims worked in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court building, where his case was being heard.
Police officer Mlungisi Blessing Sikhakhane, 23, allegedly murdered Sthembile Ngobese, 23, and Enhle Majozi, 18, both from KwaNyuswa near Hillcrest, in October.
It is alleged that the officer, who was stationed at Hillcrest police station, was dating both women.
Sikhakhane appeared before Magistrate Wendolyn Robinson in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on two counts of murder.
Sikhakhane’s lawyer said they had become aware that the parent of one of the victims worked at the same court.
“The accused wants the magistrate to recuse herself,” his lawyer requested.
Robinson said she did not interact with any of the court staff, besides “those in my own court”.
“I’m here to deal with law and not with staff.”
However, Sikhakhane’s lawyer pushed on, saying that whether it was a staff member Robinson dealt with previously or not, Sikhakhane could not be sure.
The lawyer added:
Robinson said that while she did not foresee any bias on her part, she did not want to infringe on Sikhakhane’s rights.
“I am going to recuse myself for the accused. We can then arrange a date for someone outside of the district.”
The matter will be back in court on 10 November.
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