MEC Robbery Matter: Accused abandons plea agreement, opts for trial

The armed robbery case involving the Western Cape Social Development MEC Albert Fritz has been postponed to 30 May.

The accused – Xolisa Baba (26), had initially indicated an intention to enter into a plea agreement. However, today in a court appearance, opted to abandon the attempt and go on trial.

Baba, who is the surviving suspect – will now face charges of armed robbery with aggravating circumstances. Prosecutors indicated that additional charges may be added at his next court appearance.

The matter relates to the violent incident in Nyanga last year (August), in which Baba and his 19 year-old accomplice held the MEC, his spokesperson and team at gunpoint, robbing them of their cellphones.

The robbery resulted in a shootout between the robbers and SAPS bodyguards, which left the 19 year-old suspect dead, and Baba injured.

Since his arrest last year, Baba had abandoned his bid for bail and continues to be remanded in custody.

Baba already has other criminal cases he is yet to stand trial for, including another case of aggravated robbery and hijacking.

Young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEETs) do not have to get caught up in a life a crime. The Department has allocated R17.7-million this financial year to youth services, and expanding opportunities.