Douglas Mthukwane. Picture: Soraya Crowie
RAPE accused Douglas Mthukwane, who has been sent for a 30-day forensic psychiatric observation, lashed out at the media during his court appearance this week, calling them “rented pigs” and hurled offensive insults at reporters.
Following a lengthy wait, a bed became available for him at the Kimberley Correctional Centre hospital.
Mthukwane is on trial in the Northern Cape High Court for the rape of a 14-year-old girl and two other women. He is also scheduled to return to the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court later this month for the alleged rape of a 26-year-old traditional healer.
Senior State prosecutor Catherine Jansen stated that Mthukwane would have to be taken into custody for the duration of the psychiatric observation, as there are no outpatient facilities available. She added that if the observation is not completed within the 30 days, the State will apply for an extension.
“Should the observation be completed before then, we will consult with his legal representative, Renier Pieterse, whereupon his bail will be reinstated,” added Jansen.
Video: Soraya Crowie
Mthukwane blamed the media for subjecting him to nine years of being “in this mess” where he faced tribulations in and out of court.
“Stop provoking me and writing lies about me. You will die a horrible death, the God that I serve will deal with you,” he warned, while pointing his forefinger at reporters.
He accused the court of “turning a blind eye to the flagrant abuse” he allegedly faced from journalists, whom he branded “biased rented pigs”.
Mthukwane claimed, “They are harassing and intimidating me. They are peddling falsehoods about me and are inciting people against me. I am losing jobs, my house has been broken into, and my children and elderly, sickly mother are being taunted.”
He dared the court to “hang him like Solomon Mahlangu”, believing he was being subjected to a “kangaroo court.” He stated, “I am not the first man to be hanged for fighting for what is right.”
Mthukwane also complained that a court orderly in the corridor had allegedly swore at his mother’s private parts during an adjournment when he questioned why she was laughing at him.
He denied requesting to be sent for mental observation.
Acting Judge Sharon Erasmus on several occasions asked Mthukwane to “calm down” and stop his outbursts. At one point, she left the courtroom to allow him to control his temper.
She indicated that Mthukwane would be examined by a psychiatrist to determine if he was mentally fit to stand trial and if he could be held responsible for the charges against him.
The matter was postponed until September 13.