NC High Court frustrated as alleged cop killer seeks new lawyer again
Daniel Alberts, who is charged with the murder of Kimberley SAPS Flying Squad members, has applied for a new legal representative.
Image: Sandi Kwon Hoo / DFA
MURDER accused Daniel Alberts, who is accused of fatally shooting two Kimberley Flying Squad members in August 2023 following a high-speed chase, has blamed his former legal representative for “not taking instructions”.
He appeared in the Northern Cape High Court yesterday to arrange for new legal representation.
At the time of the incident, Sergeant Kedimetse Masilo and Constable Okaetse Mandindi were trying to apprehend Alberts in connection with a suspected stolen vehicle that was en route from Bloemfontein, when he allegedly overpowered and shot them.
Alberts was arrested later in Riverton and was allegedly found in possession of an R5 rifle, an unlicensed firearm, and drugs.
His former legal representative, Advocate Obakeng Maroke, advised the court that there was a “conflict of interest” following various consultations with the accused.
Alberts claimed that Maroke had only consulted with him for 20 minutes before he was due to appear in court on August 4.
“He hasn’t taken instructions and told me that he is unable to consult as he has not been paid by Legal Aid South Africa and has to travel from Mahikeng to Kimberley,” said Alberts.
Senior State Advocate Catherine Jansen advised that this was the second legal representative appointed for the accused under the judicare system.
“His previous legal representative, Heinrich Steynberg from Legal Aid South Africa, also withdrew due to a conflict of interest,” said Jansen.
She added that she would try to facilitate legal representation for Alberts in the absence of a legal representative.
Deputy Judge President of the Northern Cape Division, Mmathebe Phatsoane, objected to the repeated postponements, noting that the trial was scheduled to start this week.
“Things cannot carry on like this,” she added.