NPA confident it has strong case against alleged arsonist accused of deadly Marshalltown fire

JOHANNESBURG - The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has expressed confidence in its case against the man accused of setting fire to the Usindiso building in Marshalltown. 

Sthembiso Mdlalose appeared in the Johannesburg High Court on Friday. 

He faces 76 counts of murder and 68 of attempted murder.

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Last year, he admitted to setting fire to the five-storey hijacked building in August, 2023, leading to the deaths of 76 people. 

In December, his case was transferred from the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court to the high court for trial.                           

His pre-trial conference was meant to take place on Friday. Instead the case was postponed because of Mdlalose's lack of legal representation. 

NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane says despite delays in the case, the case against him is strong and justice will ultimately prevail 

"We are not in a position to preempt what will happen. We await the process of ensuring the accused person is represented."

Mdlalose is expected back in court next Friday.