Barney booted from 'his' trial

George “Barney” Peters believes that his rights have been violated and has requested that the police transport not “drive so roughly”.

- SANDI KWON HOO

THE SEAT occupied by George “Barney” Peters in the dock remained empty this week after he was instructed that his court case would continue in his absence due to his disruptive conduct.

He declined an offer to return to his trial on Monday as court proceedings entered their third week in the Northern Cape High Court.

Peters and his co-accused - Britney Arends, Stephanie McAnda, Simone Rose, Chinaaz Mentoor, Abigail van Wyk, Chane Adams, Michael Peters, Clive Peters, Deon May, Pamerston Mentoor, Henry Blom, Vincent Rosen, Tshepo Malambi, Nico Hofuza and Shawn Smith are facing 117 charges, including murder, attempted murder, gang activity, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, discharge of a firearm in a built-up area, public violence, money laundering, racketeering, defeating the ends of justice, assault, kidnapping, fraud, and dealing in drugs.

Court proceedings were delayed when Peters indicated that he was in pain, whereupon arrangements were made for him to consult the district surgeon.