A Kgosi Mampuru correctional officer accused of the murder of his wife for allegedly refusing his sexual advances has been granted R5 000 bail.

Thuso Phora (32) appeared in the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court following his arrest in January at the Tshwane District Hospital, where he had been admitted after allegedly trying to commit suicide by taking poison.

“Bail was set on the condition that he should not have contact with his minor child unless the family court did a thorough investigation and believes that the accused can have contact with the child,” said NPA regional spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana.

Phora and his wife allegedly had an argument during which he hit her with an unknown object and then proceeded to strangle her with an extension cord before fleeing the scene.

According to Mahanjana, a family friend noticed what looked like a blood stain on the bed when the backroom door was slightly open.

It is believed the friend reported their suspicion to the police.

During the bail application, the state asked the court not to release the accused on bail because he was likely to evade trial due to the seriousness of his offence.

Moreover, the accused was “likely” to attempt suicide again.

His release on bail might also incite public violence, the state argued.

In his affidavit, Phora however told the court that he will not evade his trial.

He, therefore, asked to be released on bail, adding that he needed to take care of his four-year-old daughter who was sick.

Delivering his verdict, the magistrate said there was no evidence the accused would evade his trial or commit another crime while out on bail. He thus granted the bail.

The matter is expected to return to court on May 5 to allow for more investigations to take place.