IN THE HIGH COURT OF SWAZILAND
HELD AT MBABANE
Criminal Case No. 111/2005
REX
Vs
JERRY STHOTHOBALA MKHONTO
Coram: S.B. MAPHALALA - J
For the Crown: MR. S. FAKUDZE
For the Accused: IN PERSON
JUDGMENT
19th March 2008
[1] On the 19 October 2007, the Applicant was granted bail of El 5, 000-00 in terms of the amended Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act. He had written an undated letter where he sets out his personal circumstances. That on the 25th June 2004, he was arrested by the Mbabane Serious Crime Unit (Lukhozi) and was charged with seven (7) counts of murder, arson, theft, robbery, housebreaking and theft. After his arrest he was brought before the Mbabane Magistrate Court. On the 8th August 2005, he was committed to the High Court for trial.
[2] The Applicant avers that his application is in terms of Section 136 (1) of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act as amended. In his letter he has outlined his personal circumstances at some length. In the last paragraph thereof he has requested the court to give him bail suitable to his circumstances.
[3] In court on the 19th October 2007, the Applicant stated that the amount of El 5, 000-00 was far beyond his capacity such that he cannot afford to pay the bail.
[4] I have considered the arguments before me and it appears to me on the facts of the matter that the Applicant bail be reduced to El, 000-00 and to provide sureties in the sum of El4, 000-00 and to enter into Recognizances with the Crown accordingly.
S.B. MAPHALALA – J
JUDGE