The Randburg Magistrate’s Court has postponed the contempt of court case against Longwe Twala, the son of ace producer Sello ‘Chicco’ Twala to December 4.
Longwe made a brief appearance on Wednesday, following his re-arrest for failing to show up in court on housebreaking charges over two months ago.
During a brief appearance, Longwe attempted to explain his absence from the October 25 hearing regarding the alleged theft of his father’s studio equipment.
He claimed that he had been unwell and had instructed his aunt to inform the court of his condition.
However, the presiding magistrate, Hleziphi Mkhasibe, sought further clarification. She inquired whether he could provide a doctor’s certificate to substantiate his claims, which he was unable to produce.
As a result, the magistrate postponed the case to allow the investigating officer to verify Longwe’s narrative through his aunt.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane, confirmed that the court was conducting an enquiry into the validity of Longwe’s claims regarding his illness.
“Longwe has detailed his reasons for his failure to appear in court, saying he informed his aunt that he was sick. When one claims that they were sick, then they need to provide proof to the court that indeed they were sick through a medical certificate where possible.
“In this case, he did not have any medical certificate hence the court has postponed the matter to December 4 for the State to ascertain the veracity of what he said in court,” she said.
While presenting his case, Longwe stated: “I informed my aunt that I was sick.” However, without a medical certificate to validate his illness, the court remained sceptical.
Longwe was originally released on strict warning following a recent arrest earlier in September. This arrest stemmed from a theft complaint lodged by his father, who accused both Longwe and his younger brother, Sello, of breaking into his home and making off with recording equipment valued at over R200 000 while he was abroad on business.
The Star