Mbabane – The State has strongly opposed bail for Sanele Ace Hlanze, who is facing a murder charge in connection with the stabbing death of a 46-year-old woman in Hluthi, arguing that he poses a flight risk, may interfere with witnesses, and is already facing another serious criminal charge.
The opposing affidavit filed at the High Court of Eswatini in Mbabane indicates that Hlanze allegedly stabbed his neighbour to death after an incident linked to allegations that the deceased had reported him to police for inappropriate conduct involving a minor. The State alleges that the deceased confronted or reported the matter before she was fatally attacked.
According to the affidavit deposed by Detective Constable Sibusiso Gama, Hlanze allegedly met the deceased on the day of the incident and followed her to her homestead, where he is accused of repeatedly stabbing her in the neck. The victim reportedly collapsed in her yard and died from her injuries.
Investigators further allege that after the incident, Hlanze attempted to conceal evidence by changing bloodstained clothing and fleeing the scene. He was later arrested after allegedly attempting to retrieve the clothing.
The State contends that releasing Hlanze on bail would not be in the interest of justice. It argues that he has strong ties outside Eswatini, including time spent in South Africa, and could evade trial by crossing borders through informal entry points.
Prosecutors also argue that he has no stable permanent residence and tends to move between locations, making him difficult to trace. They further submit that the accused faces a separate rape charge in Nhlangano and is alleged to have breached bail conditions in that matter.
The affidavit also raises concerns about potential interference with witnesses, stating that key witnesses may not be safe due to the seriousness of the allegations and the nature of the offence.
The State maintains that there is overwhelming evidence against Hlanze and that conviction could result in a custodial sentence. It therefore asks the court to deny bail on the grounds that continued detention is necessary.
The matter is expected to proceed before the High Court as the bail application is considered.
Discussion about this post