The man who is allegedly responsible for the fire at Parliament is due to begin his 30-day mental observation at the Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital.
According to IOL, the accused, Zandile Christmas Mafe’s legal representative was informed via email by the National Prosecuting Authority that he has now secured a bed at the facility, and will start his observation.
The 49-year-old Mafe made his second appearance in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where it was revealed that has been preliminarily diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia.
Mafe faces two counts of arson, possession of an explosive device and destruction of essential infrastructure. However, the state also added a Schedule six offence as a new charge.
The Contravention of the Terrorist Act was added to the charge sheet after it abandoned the count that relates to damage to essential infrastructure. The case has been remanded until April.
Also read: Alleged Parliament arsonist preliminarily diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia
Meanwhile, several political parties are pointing out the lack of response by Police Minister Bheki Cele after the blaze severely damaged seven parts of the national key point on Sunday, January 2.
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Alleged confession from homeless parliament arsonist – evidence scarce, suspicion high
Picture: Twitter/Nadine Theron