Investigators in Joe Sibanyoni case receiving threats, court hears

Share current article via EmailShare current article via FacebookShare current article via TwitterShare current article via LinkedInShonisani TshikalangeReporter

Opens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowOpens in new windowEnter fullscreen mode displaying this image.ExpandJoe ‘Ferrari’ Sibanyoni, Daniel Masilela, Philemon Msiza and Oupa ‘Bafana’ Sindane in court. File picture: Thulani Mbele Story audio is generated using AI

The Delmas magistrate’s court heard that the investigating team in the case of taxi boss and businessperson Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni and his co-accused have been receiving threats.

Sibanyoni, together with Oupa “Bafana” Sindane, Daniel Masilela and Philemon Msiza, face extortion and money laundering charges, stemming from allegations that they extorted more than R2.2m from a businessperson in Kwaggafontein near Middelburg, Mpumalanga, over an extended period of time.

During the appearance of the men at the Delmas magistrate’s court in Mpumalanga on Tuesday, the state told the court that it had received concerns from the investigating team about alleged threats relating to the case. The prosecution emphasised that it was not alleging anything against the accused, but said it deemed it fit to place the concerns on record.

However, the defence teams distanced their clients from any threats, with some saying they were concerned the issue had been raised in court without earlier consultation.

The state also agreed to relax the bail conditions of reporting to the police station, with the accused now required to report to the police station once a month.

SowetanLive previously reported that Sibanyoni’s name had been referenced several times at the Madlanga commission of inquiry, which is investigating allegations of criminality, corruption and interference in the criminal justice system.

At the commission, witnesses have placed him at the centre of an alleged “big five” cartel, which is said to have interests in security companies, drug distribution, contract killings and cross-border hijackings.

The proceedings were postponed to April 20 for further investigation.

Would you like to comment on this article?Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.