NPA condemns EFF threats against prosecutor in Malema's firearms case

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has condemned social media posts containing threats directed at a prosecutor involved in Julius Malema’s firearms case before the East London Magistrates Court.

This, after the EFF issued a directive to the party’s structure kuGompo City to lay perjury charges against State prosecutor Advocate Joel Cesar.

Cesar prosecuted Malema in his firearm case, resulting in the court handing him a five-year direct sentence after he was found guilty of violating guns law.

He further accused Cesar of acting out of his jurisdiction, saying the firearm he used to shoot in the air was released back to its owner, Adriaan Snyman.

Addressing supporters outside the courthouse on Thursday, Malema said: “He [Advocate Joel Cesar] lies in court yesterday lying to the court is a criminal offence, he says they gave the gun to accused number 2 when he was acquitted - but he forgot that when you collect a weapon or an item that was used as evidence you must signed for it - there must be a time and date.”

While the sentence has been handed down, he remains a free man pending an appeal to the Eastern Cape High Court.

The NPA said any form of intimidation against prosecutors is unacceptable and undermines the rule of law and the administration of justice.

It warns that such threats must be taken seriously, particularly in the Eastern Cape, where three prosecutors have been killed in recent years.

NPA national spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said: "Threats against prosecutors, whether perceived as credible or not, must be treated with the utmost seriousness and reported to the relevant law enforcement authorities for investigation."

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Article written by Mongezi Koko and Nhlanhla Mabaso