Westbury nine in high spirits

The nine suspects arrested in connection with a murder in Westbury, Johannesburg were seemingly in high spirits yesterday during their bail application at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.

The suspects, including the two police officers arrested in connection with the murder of 21-year-old Bradley Sauls, sneaked glances at family members who were present in court, some pulling funny faces and winking, while one took the opportunity to mouth, “I love you”, to a woman in the gallery.

The nine are facing charges of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, corruption, kidnapping and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.

The defence for the police officers – who were added to the case as accused Nos 6 and 7 following their arrest two weeks ago – requested the state clarify which specific charges each of them was facing, a matter the magistrate said was a “valid concern”.

The defence said accused Nos 6 and 7 had initially faced the charge of defeating the ends of justice but the charge sheet had been amended by the state a number of times, hence the request for clarity.

The state said this matter would be resolved in due course.

Their bail application was set down for November 2 and the accused were remanded in custody.

Meanwhile, the case of Heather Peterson, who was also murdered in Westbury, was set down for November 14 pending the finalisation of the bail application and an identity parade of one of the three accused.

Peterson was shot dead last month when she was caught in the crossfire of a gang shooting.

She was walking with a 10-yearold child, who was injured in the shooting.

The incident sparked violent protests in the area, with the community demanding action over the ongoing gang violence.

Community members accused the police of being in cahoots with criminals, contributing to the high levels of violence.

The court yesterday heard that the identity parade for accused No 3 would be carried out this weekend.

The suspects, including the two police officers, sneaked glances at family members who were present in court, some pulling funny faces and winking, while one took the opportunity to mouth, ‘I love you’, to a woman in the gallery.