Accused trio deny killing top lawyer

THREE men charged with assassinating well-known criminal lawyer Pete Mihalik pleaded not guilty in the Western Cape High Court.

Sizwe Biyela, Nkosinathi Khumalo and Vuyile Maliti were charged with five counts of murder, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition, for their alleged involvement in Mihalik’s murder.

Mihalik was seated in his car when he was shot in the head during a routine drop off at the Reddam House School in Green Point on October 30, 2018. His daughter escaped unharmed but his son was wounded.

Biyela and Khumalo were arrested after they were pulled over by a traffic officer for failing to stop at a stop sign.

Traffic officer Boy Makutu, stationed at Gallows Hill Traffic Department, yesterday took the stand, where he was questioned by State advocate Greg Wolmarans.

He said he pulled over a bright coloured Clio and a silver/grey Polo, just after 7am on the day of the incident. He said the Clio driver identified himself as Khumalo.

The officer said Khumalo tried to bribe him, but he declined the offer. Makutu decided to take him to Sea Point police station, where he would be detained.

Shortly after their arrival, Makutu heard on his radio that there was a shooting in Green Point, prompting road closures. He then called his colleague and explained the scenario which brought him to Sea Point police station.

Makutu confirmed that Khumalo was later arrested.

There was no cross-examination by the defence. The matter will resume in court on Monday.