’21st shooters’ appear in court

ToBeConfirmed

ToBeConfirmed

Published Nov 10, 2021

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Marawaan Sofaar, 38, Jonathan Witbooi, 35, and Moegamat Hartzenberg, 22, made a brief appearance in the Mitchells Plain magistrate court on Wednesday.

The three accused who were dubbed "the 21st shooters" are facing seven charges of attempted murder, one of murder and one count of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

The trio were allegedly responsible for the mass shooting last month in Montclair Drive, Mandalay, Mitchells Plain.

According to a source close to the investigation, the occupants of a green Honda Ballade opened fire on the guests at a 21st birthday party.

Eight victims, ages 5 to 26 years old, were admitted to hospital. A woman (24) later died from her wounds.

The source adds there is still uncertainty about why the shooting happened, but claims that it was gang related.

Eric Ntabazalila, a spokesman for the National Prosecuting Authority confirmed that Sofaar, Witbooi and Hartzenberg would at their next appearance possibly apply for bail.

The case was postponed to November 18 for identity parade.

Meanwhile, Faizel Ovis, 32, also appeared in Wynberg Magistrates Court on Tuesday.

The accused all made appearences in court this week- PIC supplied

Ovis is charged with the murder of Adenaan Cloete and two counts of attempted murder after he allegedly fired shots at the victims who was leaving a mosque in Wynberg.

Ntabazalila explained that Ovis abandoned his bail application.

"Ovis was on parole for attempted murder when he committed the current crimes. He first needs to sort out his issues with the parole board.

"The State says that Cloete and two complainants were leaving a mosque in Wynberg, at 13:40, when they spotted a man who immediately made a call after they spotted him.

"Whilst getting into their vehicle, Ovis and his accomplice walked/ ran towards the deceased and the complainants and fired several shorts. Cloete was killed and the two complainants were injured. The accused is known to the victims."

The case has been postponed until January for further investigation.