Magistrate refuses to try suspect

MPHO MOKWAPE
Correspondent | Wednesday January 9, 2013 00:00

Robert Chatayika from Zimbabwe, is alleged to have muttered the words 'I am going to kill you with my bare hands' to his landlord on October 8, 2012 in Tlokweng. Chatayika, who seemed restless, appeared in court cuffed and shackled due to his previous psychotic behaviour in court.

During the proceedings, he  constantly interrupted the magistrate and demanded that he be accorded a trial as he is sane. He promised not to be a threat to the court and asked that he be given a chance to plead his case.Furthermore, Chatayika, who has since pleaded guilty to the charge, read a letter of apology for his previous behaviour, stressing that he was overwhelmed by emotion as the prosecution seemed to be delaying his trial, accusing them (prosecution) of disrespecting the court as they had not appeared in court for six consecutive sessions. 

He said this is what had led to him losing his temper in court.  On the numerous occasions that he appeared in court, Chatayika stirred commotion. On one occasion he reportedly assaulted state prosecutor Tebogo Mmopi on the December 5, 2012. Mmopi has since absented herself from the court sessions fearing for her safety.

Masawi ordered the prison warders to immediately book the accused person for a psychiatric evaluation.  The case has been adjourned until January 21, 2013.