Ex-Pirates star Bibo in legal limbo

FORMER Bafana Bafana star Thandani "Bibo" Ntshumayelo's assault case has been postponed to Wednesday, 12 June, following a brief appearance in the Randburg Magistrates Court on Thursday, 21 May.

Dressed in white track pants and a white top, and carrying a towel, Ntshumayelo appeared calm and was unaccompanied.

The postponement was granted to allow for potential mediation with the victim.

Initially set for trial in court 6, the magistrate declared the case trial-ready, pending the finalisation of the J88 form.

Defence lawyer Molefi Mtonjana confirmed his continued representation of Ntshumayelo, saying: "Yes, Your Worship, I confirm my appearance on behalf of the court. I will be representing my client, who is present here with me."

ALSO READ : TV presenter's legal battle continues!

This followed a previous postponement on Thursday, 4 April, for further investigation.

The Joburg-based footballer's last court appearance was on Monday, 5 February 2024.

The 33-year-old is accused of assaulting his girlfriend, Itumeleng Alice, in February.

Ntshumayelo was arrested on Saturday, 3 February 2024, and later released on R1 000 bail, facing common assault charges under the Domestic Violence Act.

At the time of the incident, police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the arrest.

Ntshumayelo, who joined Orlando Pirates after leaving SuperSport United in 2012, was banned from football in 2016 after testing positive for cocaine.

His ban was reduced to two years following an appeal, allowing him a chance to return to the sport.

After his court appearance, Ntshumayelo quickly left for his car, accompanied by his defence lawyer Molefi.