Businessman and taxi owner Oupa Sindane says he plans to plead not guilty to extortion and money laundering charges. He is seeking bail in the Kwaggafontein Magistrate’s Court east of Johannesburg with three co-accused.
The 50-year-old Sindane handed himself over to police on Friday morning. The state maintains he was attempting to flee but had no choice but to surrender. His defence team argues he voluntarily turned himself in and was unaware he was a wanted suspect.
Sindane told the court that remaining in custody would harm his business and employees. He and co-accused Joe Sibanyoni, Daniel Masilela and Phillimon Msiza all deny involvement in the alleged crimes.
The bail application continues in court.
