Anger over bail for hit-and-run suspect

THE ANC Frances Baard Regional Executive Committee (REC) member who was allegedly involved in a hit-and-run accident in Mataleng, Barkly West over the weekend, has received bail of R1 000.

Community members were aggrieved because they said the suspect had received bail without appearing in court.

Police spokesperson, Captain Sergio Kock, said yesterday that the suspect had applied for a bail application through his attorney after hours, after he handed himself over to the police on Sunday.

“He received R1 000 bail and is scheduled to appear in the Barkly West Magistrate’s Court on Friday. The police investigation continues,” said Kock.

Eyewitnesses stated that they saw Thabang Alfonso being flung into the air after being struck by a speeding car in an incident that took place near the Mataleng Stadium.

The spokesperson for the ANC REC in the Frances Baard region, Ali Diteme, said that they had not met to discuss the charges against the REC member.

“There are a number of programmes on the go including the visit of President Zuma to the Women’s Day event. We will meet in due course to discuss the matter,” said Diteme.

He added that they would also visit the family of the deceased this week.

“We would like to extend our condolences to the Alfonso family in Barkly West, following an accident which involves our fellow REC member.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Alfonso.”

Diteme called on the community to remain calm and have confidence in the law enforcement agencies to deal with the matter.

“We also wish to assure the family that no one will be given special treatment as the matter is currently under investigation and that the law will take its course.

“We are calling upon the law enforcement agencies within the area to increase visibility and maintain regular roadside inspections to help monitor motorists and reduce accidents.

“We further call upon the authorities to deal decisively with those who flout the rules of the road - endangering the lives of themselves and other road users.”