Cop "can’t remember" anything about colleague’s death

By Ilhaam Hoosain
29 October 2007

A Philippi police officer who is going on trial in connection with a colleague’s death during a 2003 shooting riot has requested a postponement to consult a neurologist.

Denver Prins faces a murder charge for the death of Siyabulela Jonas.

Prins also faces seven attempted murder charges, three of pointing a firearm, handling a firearm negligently, handling a firearm while under the influence of alcohol and holding a colleague hostage.

He has pleaded not guilty, saying that he does not recall the incident and was assessed by two psychologists and was declared fit for trial.

Prins is accused of taking student constable Ndumiso Gordan hostage on 19 January 2003 at the Philippi police station.

Prins is also alleged to have shot and killed Jonas during the incident and more than 50 shots were fired. The night of the shooting three officers was on duty when nine was required. Prins was frustrated that evening as a result of this.

The case was postponed to 8 November 2007.