Usindiso building fire: Court rules that Sthembiso Mdlalose's confession can be used as evidence

JOHANNESBURG - The Palm Ridge Magistrates Court has ruled that the confession made by the man who admitted to starting the fire at the Usindiso building can be used as evidence.

Sthembiso Mdlalose confessed in January 2024 to being responsible for the blaze that tore through the Usindiso building, resulting in the deaths of 76 people.

His attempt to reverse his confession has fallen flat, as the court found that he was in his sober mind when he admitted to the crime.

Mdlalose, the self-confessed Usindiso building arsonist, claimed that he was high on drugs when he confessed to starting the blaze.

He also told the court that a Tanzanian drug lord forced him to confess by threatening him to take the blame.

It was on these grounds that Mdlalose was trying to reverse his confession.

But presiding Judge Cassim Moosa ruled that the confession was admissible in court and could be used against him.

"The court finds that the statement which Mr Sthembiso Mdlalose made was made freely and voluntarily and without any undue influence being applied upon the accused."

This means the trial-within-a-trial has now come to an end, and the State will continue with its case against the alleged arsonist.