The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Mpumalanga has filed an application for leave to appeal against several controversial orders issued by Chief Magistrate T.Tonjeni in the Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni extortion case.

The orders, handed down on May 18 at Kwaggafontein Magistrate Court, included the conviction of a prosecutor for contempt of court, authorization of a warrant for his arrest, and the striking off of the criminal case due to alleged unreasonable delays under Section 342A(3)(c) of the Criminal Procedure Act.The appeal application immediately suspends the enforcement of these orders while the higher court reviews the matter.

The NPA has also formally requested written reasons from the magistrate to clarify the basis for the rulings, ensuring a comprehensive record for the appeal process.A legal team led by Senior Counsel has been assembled to provide expert guidance on the complex legal issues involved.

Advocates for the NPA emphasized the urgency of receiving the written reasons promptly to proceed efficiently with the appeal and safeguard the integrity of the justice system.

Joe “Ferrari” Sibanyoni, 60, along with co-accused Bafana “King of the Sky” Sindane, Phillmon Makhaya Msiza, and Mvimba Daniel Masilela, were set free after the prosecutor failed to appear in court.Following the ruling, the four men celebrated outside court, drawing significant public attention.

The NPA reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting cases without fear or favor, highlighting its constitutional mandate to uphold justice and protect public interests.