Closing arguments in the R255 million asbestos roof removal corruption trial within a trial are expected to take place in the Free State High Court in Bloemfontein today. Cross-examination of the second state witness concluded on Thursday.

Loyiso Makapela who is the legal representative for accused 17, Moroadi Cholota, said they would not be calling any witnesses as they believe the state failed to advance a convincing case that South African courts have jurisdiction to try Cholota.

Cholota is challenging her extradition process from the USA.

She is adamant that her extradition from America was unlawful and that South African authorities misled their counterparts in the US to bring her back.

Judge Phillip Loubser said: “The reason for the standing down is to allow the state as well as the legal representatives of accused number 17 to prepare heads of argument and to present closing arguments in the trial within a trial on that day, the court will now adjourn.”

The trial-within-a-trial in the R255 million asbestos roofing case has been postponed to Monday for closing arguments. https://t.co/ouVCaO0Kwo

— SABC News (@SABCNews) May 22, 2025

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