Another court delay leaves Andile Mbuthu family frustrated
The family of slain teenager Andile Mbuthu say they're starting to lose hope in the justice system following another delay.
Mbuthu was killed for allegedly stealing alcohol from Magagula Tavern during the Covid-19 lockdown in 2020.
The death of teen made headlines across the country with angry oThongathi locals burning down the tavern after Mbuthu's body was found chopped and dumped at a local river.
Seven people were arrested, including the owner of the tavern, Mlungisi Thabethe.
Thabethe died in a hail of bullets in 2021.
READ: Andile 'Bobo' Mbuthu murder case postponed due to illness
One of the remaining six accused has turned state witness and is undergoing cross-examination.
However, proceedings had to be postponed on Wednesday after defence attorney, Chris Gounden, told the court he was unwell.
Speaking outside court Mbuthu's uncle, Bongani Mthembu, said the delays have created frustration and doubt for the family.
"It started from 2020 until 2022, it goes very slow. We don't know what is going on and as a family, we are not happy, we have doubts."
But Gounden has pointed the finger at the prosecution team, saying it's them who've been behind the majority of the delays.
"So prior to that adjournments, the reason was the state was unable to complete the investigations timeously. So from the time the matter was set up for a trial, there was no delay. The matter proceeded on every occasion."
