Legal Battle Intensifies for Alleged Gang Leader Ralph Stanfield as New Charge Surfaces

Alleged 28s gang boss Ralph Stanfield's legal entanglements intensified on Thursday, 28 March 2024, as the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court brought to light a new housebreaking charge related to an incident from 2018, adding to Stanfield’s already hefty dossier of accusations.

Stanfield, together with his wife Nicole Johnson and co-accused Denver Booysen, Johannes Abrahams, and Jose Brandt – also known as Makop, faced the court in anticipation of updates on their case, which includes charges ranging from theft to attempted murder.

The case took a decisive turn with the introduction of the recent charge and the surfacing of two critical ballistic reports mere hours before their court appearance. These reports are believed to play a significant role in connecting three of the co-accused to the attempted slaying of Stanfield's ex-employee amidst a heated financial dispute.

State prosecutor Advocate Frank van Heerden indicated a witness statement was pending, but he expressed confidence in securing it promptly, asserting its significance to the emerging housebreaking charge against Stanfield.

While awaiting details on the ballistic evidence, the defense, led by Ross McKernan and advisory Advocate Frans Mashele, pleaded for a case withdrawal from the Magistrate's Court in favor of a Regional Court hearing, citing a desire to expedite proceedings.

A potential postponement caused visible unrest within Stanfield, prompting in-court discussions with his lawyer. The defense opposed further delays on the grounds that previous adjournments were deemed final. Despite this, the case was adjourned again to 10 May, as both sides work towards a Regional Court transition.

Stanfield is no stranger to controversy. Outside of his involvement with the notorious 28s gang, he's been embroiled in a dispute over firearms licensing, with allegations pointing towards illicit interactions with the Central Firearm Registry. Alongside Johnson and the three co-accused, Stanfield faces a barrage of charges from recent and past events, underscoring a long-standing battle with the law. Persistent legal shakeups, including a switch from advocate Luzuko Guma, who served during unsuccessful bail hearings, add further complexity to his case.

As developments continue, the courtroom drama surrounding Stanfield serves as a gripping reminder of the persistent law enforcement challenges faced when confronting organized crime in South Africa.