State to continue with its heads of argument in Sibiya’s bail bid

The bail application of former Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya is expected to continue on Thursday, with the State set to present its heads of argument.

The 59-year-old faces multiple charges, including the alleged sexual grooming of a 16-year-old girl , rape, human trafficking and contravention of the Firearms Control Act.

The court heard on Wednesday that Sibiya suffers from chronic conditions, including diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, and requires constant medical supervision.

His legal team, led by Senior Counsel Estelle Killian, has asked the court to grant him bail of R20 000, arguing that he is not a flight risk and will not interfere with witnesses.

The State is opposing his release on bail.

Sibiya denies all the charges against him.

State prosecutor had this to say in court on Wednesday: “There’s a tendency to try and cast doubt on the strength of the State’s case.

The offences listed on counts 1, 2 and 3 were committed between the period of 20th of July to the 3rd of August 2026.

And the offences listed on counts 4 and 5 were committed 16th of May 2026.

This honourable court at this stage is told that there was consensual intercourse and that is going to be maintained during the trial.” VIDEO | Rape survivor tells court she fears for her family’s safety