No bail for tik dealer
2005-12-20 22:35
Cape Town - The Cape High Court on Tuesday refused bail for a Cape Flats drug dealer accused of the murder of tik-addicted teenager Angelique Luyt and the attempted murder of her sister Charlene.
Michael Phosa launched his bail application before Judge Nona Gosa, who said the alleged murder and attempted murder happened against the background of drug and liquor abuse.
She said she had to consider the seriousness of the alleged crimes as well as a charge of rape involving a girl under the age of 18.
If convicted of murder, Phosa faced a life sentence, she said.
She said the gravity of the murder and attempted murder charges could not be over-emphasised.
She rejected a contention by the defence team, Craig Webster and Colin Geoffrys, that the prosecution's case was so weak that the interest of justice demanded Phosa's release.
She said no evidence was placed before court to justify the conclusion that Phosa's release on bail was in the interest of justice.
Phosa goes on trial in October 2006 on charges of murder, attempted murder, rape of girl under 18, and two charges relating to the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
- SAPA