File
Lawyers for the newly accused in the Fort Hare saga want all charges dropped against 14 of the 15 suspects.
Their legal counsel argued that the Dimbaza magistrate, Nonthuthuzelo Sontlaba, does not have jurisdiction, as the warrants of arrest issued state the suspects should appear in East London.
They also argued that the suspects facing racketeering charges were wrongfully arrested, that being without the certificate of authority from the National Director of Public Prosecutions.
Also Read: More suspects in court in connection with Fort Hare murder probe
These applications came after the defense asked Magistrate Sontlaba to recuse herself from the bail applications of the accused, who were arrested over the weekend in various provinces.
They face a string of charges including fraud, racketeering, and corruption emanating from the ongoing investigation at Fort Hare University.
Magistrate Sontlaba will rule on the matter on Thursday.