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After parliament fire: suspect in court
He is accused of starting the fire in the South African parliament building in Cape Town. The 49-year-old came to court on Tuesday. Among other things, he has to answer for arson and possession of an explosive device. The spokesman for the National Prosecution, Eric Ntabazalila. “There are currently five charges, including trespassing with intent to steal and theft, two charges of arson, possession of an explosive device and the destruction of essential infrastructure. The trial has been adjourned to January 11th.” The suspect’s lawyer said he denied the allegations and would plead “not guilty”. The authorities announced on Tuesday that they had finally brought the fire under control. The fire first broke out on Sunday. On Monday, the authorities had already pulled some fire engines and said they were about to put out the embers, but then the fire flared up again and caused great damage. The authorities have so far not disclosed any possible motive for the start of the fire.
The 49-year-old has to answer for arson and possession of an explosive device, among other things.