Woman granted bail after fatal incident during traditional ceremony in Germiston
A woman, accused of knocking over a teenage girl during a traditional ceremony in Germiston last month, has been granted R5,000 bail.
Martha van der Walt, 68, appeared in the Germiston Magistrate’s Court on Friday where she faced charges of culpable homicide and failing to stop at a scene.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said van der Walt’s vehicle allegedly struck 13-year-old Thando Pretty Mahlangu, who later succumbed to her injuries.
The accused allegedly failed to stop at the scene and drove off immediately after the collision.
CCTV footage shows a car slowing down on the road where the teens are performing their traditional dances. The car then continues forward. Speaking to eNCA, Margaret Dlamini said the driver made comments about the girls being naked.
She added that neighbours had been informed that the ceremony would be taking place.
Van der Walt later handed herself over to police after the incident.
Investigations continue. The matter has been postponed to August 20 to allow for further investigations.
“The NPA is committed to ensuring justice, particularly in cases involving the loss of young lives, by working closely with law enforcement to uphold accountability and the rule of law,” said NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane.
seanne.rall@iol.co.za
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