KEY POINTS
- Alleged underworld kingpin Nafiz Modack has 24 hours to prepare his testimony in the high-profile trial over the murder of Lieutenant-Colonel Charl Kinnear, after repeated delays frustrated the court and co-accused.
- The State accused Modack of stalling tactics, while his lawyer requested a case separation, citing difficulties in accessing evidence—a move opposed by prosecutors and co-accused alike.
- The trial underscores South Africa’s struggle against organized crime, with Modack’s testimony poised to be a pivotal moment in the case.
Alleged underworld kingpin Nafiz Modack has just one day to prepare his testimony before taking the stand at the Western Cape High Court, where he is expected to testify in his own defense.
Modack, along with 14 co-accused, faces a slew of charges in a high-profile trial centered on the murder of slain Anti-Gang Unit detective Lieutenant-Colonel Charl Kinnear. The case has gripped the nation, shedding light on the dark underbelly of South Africa’s criminal underworld.
Modack’s reluctance to enter the witness box caused a stir in court on Monday when his Legal Aid lawyer, Advocate Bash Sibda, informed Judge Robert Henney that his client needed more time. “Mr. Modack is keen to have his case separated from his co-accused,” Sibda told the court, adding that Modack had struggled to access evidence crucial to his defense. The request for a week-long postponement was met with frustration from Modack’s co-accused, who have already spent years awaiting trial.
State prosecutor Advocate Greg Wolmarans did not mince words, accusing Modack of delaying tactics. “It is not in the interest of justice to separate this matter. He is here, this is not a cruise ship, this is not the MSC,” Wolmarans quipped, eliciting chuckles from the courtroom. He revealed that Sibda had spent over 60 hours consulting with Modack at Goodwood Prison, questioning the need for further delays.
The tension in the courtroom was palpable as co-accused Zane Killian closed his case, setting the stage for Modack’s testimony. However, the proceedings were derailed by Modack’s request for more time, prompting Judge Henney to issue a stern warning. “I am of the view that this is more than enough. This court has bent over backwards,” Henney said, emphasizing that the State’s witnesses had been extensively cross-examined and Modack’s defense had been thoroughly presented.
Judge Sets Deadline as Trial Highlights South Africa’s Struggle Against Organized Crime
The trial has become a focal point in South Africa’s fight against organised crime, with the murder of Lieutenant-Colonel Kinnear exposing the dangerous nexus between law enforcement and criminal networks.
Kinnear, a decorated officer, was gunned down outside his home in September 2020, allegedly for his role in investigating Modack’s criminal activities. The case has drawn attention to the challenges faced by South Africa’s justice system in tackling powerful underworld figures.
As the trial resumes, all eyes are on Modack, whose testimony could have far-reaching implications for the case. Judge Henney has made it clear that no further delays will be tolerated. “If Mr. Modack plans to testify, he better be ready on Wednesday morning,” Henney declared, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown in the courtroom.
