Accused abandons bail after allegedly setting man alight
A MAN accused of allegedly setting another man alight, abandoned his right to apply for bail in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court this week.
Homevalley resident, Jason Frans, 32, died after sustaining severe burn wounds on his face and body.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane, said the accused, who was initially charged with attempted murder, would now face a murder charge.
The accused, Leonard Tshita, 41, will return to court on May 30 as the matter was postponed for further investigation.
The owner of the house where Jason was staying, Maria Golding, indicated that he left during the evening of April 6 and ran home following the incident during the early hours of April 7.
“His skin was peeling off his body. I covered him with a duvet as he was in excruciating pain. He was someone who would never hurt a fly.”
Tania Frans believed that her brother did not deserve to die in such a cruel manner.
“No one is able to come forward with a reason as to why he was burnt alive. We are only receiving unsubstantiated rumours and will rather wait for the post mortem results. He died on April 11 after being admitted to Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital.
“We will struggle to bury him as we do not have enough finances. He has no children and was collecting the R350 social relief distress grant.”
A memorial service was held for him this week.
Police spokesperson, Sergeant Timothy Sam, said the Roodepan police are investigating the murder.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased sustained severe burn wounds after he was allegedly set alight on April 7.
“The police are investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal incident. The state is looking at the possibility of adding additional charges.”
The police requested anyone who might have information pertaining to the incident, to contact the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Mojalefa Setlai on 073 793 8583 or 08600 10111 or MYSAPS App.
“The investigation is continuing,” Sam stated.