Dezzi Liebenberg, wife of diamond dealer Louis Liebenberg, was denied bail in the Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
She, along with her husband and seven others, faces 42 charges, including fraud, theft, racketeering, and money laundering.
During the proceedings, Magistrate Vusimuzi Mahlangu recused himself, citing the interest of justice. This unexpected twist means a new magistrate will oversee the case moving forward.
Louis Liebenberg’s disruptive behavior further complicated the session.
After causing interruptions and accusing the magistrate of discrimination, he was removed from the court under Section 159 of the Criminal Procedure Act. Even from the holding cells, he continued to disrupt the proceedings by singing and chanting.
Dezzi will remain in custody until 4 February, when all accused are scheduled to reappear in court.
The NPA welcomed the decision, emphasizing the need to focus on preparing for the trial.
The group is accused of orchestrating a scam involving unpolished diamonds, leading to their arrest in October. While others have been granted bail, both Dezzi and Louis remain incarcerated.
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