In a dramatic turn of events, the attempted murder and assault case against controversial businessman Edwin Sodi was dismissed by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, March 20.
After years of legal battles, the case has been officially struck off the roll, bringing an end to a long and controversial chapter for Sodi.
Background of the Case
The legal troubles for Sodi began in 2022 when his wife, Nthateng Lerata, accused him of assaulting both her and her male companion, Faizal Motlekar.
According to Lerata, the incident took place at the couple’s Bryanston home, and she claimed it was a life-threatening situation.
She alleged that during the confrontation, Sodi attempted to shoot her, but his gun reportedly jammed.
Additionally, it was claimed that Sodi used the same weapon to hit Motlekar on the head.
These serious allegations led to an attempted murder and assault case being opened against Sodi.
However, after three years and over 20 court appearances, the case was finally withdrawn, largely due to an out-of-court settlement between the couple.
The Court’s Decision
Despite initial resistance from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), which expressed concerns about the widespread issue of gender-based violence, the court ultimately decided to drop the case.
The NPA had initially rejected Lerata’s withdrawal statement but acknowledged that both complainants were absent from the courtroom, and one of them had filed a withdrawal statement.
The second complainant, Motlekar, also indicated he no longer wished to proceed with the case.
After arguments from the defense, the court agreed to strike the case off the roll.
According to NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane, the court’s decision was influenced by the complainants’ absence and their desire to not continue with the legal proceedings.
Sodi’s Relief
Speaking to the media after the ruling, Edwin Sodi expressed his relief that the case had come to an end.
He stated, “So it’s over. We can now focus on other things.
It’s a relief, and I’m glad it’s over.” He also revealed that over the past three years, he had appeared in court between 22 and 23 times.
Reflecting on the decision, he added that the ruling meant “minus one problem” and dismissed the allegations as “nonsense.”
Other Legal Troubles
Despite this case being dismissed, Sodi’s legal troubles are far from over.
His company, Blackhead Consulting, is involved in two major ongoing court cases relating to multi-million-rand tenders.
These include the R255 million asbestos contract in the Free State and the R295 million Rooiwal Wastewater Treatment Works project.
In addition, the NPA recently revealed that Sodi’s assets worth over R300 million could be forfeited to the state if he is found guilty of any wrongdoing.
One of the cases, involving the asbestos contract, has been postponed to April 15, 2025.