Murder-accused Ntokoto Mabasa appeared before the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court today, seeking release on bail following her arrest for the alleged fatal stabbing of her partner, Xichavo Ntsanwisi.

During the bail hearing, the court heard that Mabasa and Ntsanwisi had an altercation shortly before the incident. State prosecutor Advocate Nduduzo Jiyane presented a witness statement describing how the couple had exited an e-hailing vehicle and began arguing, allegedly over infidelity.

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The witness, who lives in a separate unit, told the court he was sitting on his balcony around midnight when he saw the couple arguing. He claimed Ntsanwisi slapped Mabasa at least twice and continued to assault her.

“They were fighting and accusing each other of cheating. I saw the gentleman pick up the lady and slam her against the floor. He opened the door, and I told my wife, ‘This is enough. This guy is going to kill this lady.’”

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Fearing for Mabasa’s safety, the witness said he went to knock on the couple’s door. When no one responded, he forced entry and found Ntsanwisi lying on the floor, bleeding from a stab wound.

Mabasa’s defence lawyer, Maanea Ramashia, did not object to the witness statement.

Mabasa stands accused of murder following the September 22 incident in Midrand. She has indicated she will plead not guilty.

In her affidavit supporting her bail application, Mabasa stated that she is the primary breadwinner, has no passport or prior convictions, and that her continued detention would disrupt her studies.

“I wish to state that I will not evade trial, interfere with state witnesses, or obstruct the police investigation,” her affidavit read. “I further submit that I will not endanger public safety or any person, and I will not jeopardise the proper functioning of the criminal justice system.”

Ramashia told the court the family could afford R1 000 for bail. However, Jiyane argued that the seriousness of the charge warranted a bail amount of at least R10 000.

After careful consideration of both the state and the defence’s case, the magistrate granted Mabasa a R10 000 bail with conditions. She said that Mabasa has to report to the Midrand Police Station once a week. She further noted that she will be remanded in custody until the bail amount is paid.

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