Pupil accused of murder denied bail

want their names revealed out of fear for their lives.

“The IO has indicated that this was a brutal, barbaric and senseless murder that was well planned.

“The accused obviously has no respect for human life. His actions after hitting the deceased with the cricket bat, along with the disposal of the body, shows a lack of conscience of human life.”

The prosecution further pointed out that had the deceased not been suffocated, the blow to the head may very well have proven fatal, adding that Mackay had been left gagged and potentially bleeding to death while the accused took his VW Golf for a joyride.

Van der Merwe added that the charge carried a prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years and had caused shock and outrage among members of the community.

“Emotions are high in the gallery and there were attempts to protest against his application for bail. Should the accused be released, it may result in public disorder as the public might take the law into their own hands.”

Magistrate Lunga Mbetane agreed and he denied bail yesterday afternoon, saying that it was in the interests of justice and the safety of the accused that he should remain in custody for the duration of the trial.

“During a previous appearance, you (Ortell) indicated that you wanted to be put in a single cell after receiving threats,” said Mbetane while elaborating on his decision.

“The witnesses are known to you and allege that you threatened them. Such threats need to be taken seriously as, if carried out, they could result in the loss of more lives.

“When one balances the arguments, one has to decide whether your release is in the interest of justice. When I look at all aspects, I’m of the opinion that you are better served in custody.”

The matter was postponed until June for further investigation.