Babes Wodumo’s assault trial sparks controversy over video evidence

Babes Wodumo’s assault trial sparks controversy over video evidence! Gqom music sensation Babes Wodumo, whose real name is Bongekile Simelane-Maphumulo, is facing assault charges in a case that has drawn significant public attention. The three-day trial commenced on Thursday, 23 January 2025, in the Durban Magistrates Court.

Dressed in an all-black ensemble, including a leather long coat, matching trousers, and boots, Babes arrived at court alongside her father, Bishop Welcome Simelane, who stood by her side throughout the proceedings.

The charges stem from an alleged altercation on 12 March 2024, where Babes is accused of assaulting Durban designer Philile “Philly” Mhlongo of SK Designs. The incident reportedly occurred at Philile’s business in the Durban CBD, located on West Walk in West Street. Babes has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Babes Wodumo’s assault trial

The Alleged Incident

Philile testified in court, recounting the events of the day. She claimed Babes struck her in the face with an open hand during a confrontation at her business premises.

“After the incident, which was recorded by cameras, I requested video footage from the business place supervisor. She showed me the footage but mentioned that she couldn’t download it for me. I recorded the footage on my cellphone, transferred it to my USB, and gave it to the investigating officer,” Philile told the court.

The video is reportedly a key piece of evidence, as it allegedly captures the entire incident. However, its validity and the manner in which it was obtained have been called into question by the defence.

Defence Questions the Evidence

Babes Wodumo’s attorney, Thula Mlondo, disputed the procedures followed to obtain the video footage, raising concerns about its admissibility. The defence challenged whether the recording was handled appropriately and maintained that these issues warranted further scrutiny.

This prompted Magistrate Ntokozo Myeni to request that the state prosecutor, Ntokozo Ngema, present the video footage in court. However, the prosecutor revealed that she did not have the video on hand, as the defence had not previously raised any disputes about the footage during the pre-trial conference.

Trial Postponement

Given the circumstances, Magistrate Myeni postponed the trial to Monday, 27 January, allowing the state time to ensure the video evidence is available for presentation in court. The trial is set to continue on 27 January, with further proceedings scheduled for 7 February.

This development has added another layer of complexity to an already contentious trial. Legal experts suggest that the manner in which the video footage was obtained and handled could become a critical point of contention, potentially impacting the outcome of the case.

Public and Legal Interest

The case has garnered widespread public and media attention, with many eager to see how the evidence and testimony will unfold. Babes Wodumo, a prominent figure in the South African music industry, has previously faced scrutiny over other legal and personal matters, making this trial another chapter in her highly publicized life.

While Babes has maintained her innocence, the state will seek to prove its case, relying heavily on the video evidence and Philile’s testimony.

What’s Next?

As the trial resumes, all eyes will be on the presentation and scrutiny of the video footage, which could play a pivotal role in the proceedings. For Babes Wodumo, the stakes are high, as the case has the potential to impact her career and public image significantly.

Legal observers note that the court’s approach to handling evidence and procedural disputes will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.

The upcoming trial dates promise to deliver more revelations, with both sides preparing to present their arguments in full. Until then, the public and Babes Wodumo’s fans await further developments in this high-profile case.