16/10/2025
© The Royal Pen 2025
The Crown's Secrets
Written by
Ripfumelo Ntimbana & Precious Molefe
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Chapter 1:
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The sun beat down on the Pretoria High Court as Sarah reported live outside the courtroom. "Good evening, I'm reporting live from the High Court, where the notorious gangster, Mfana the Jackal, is facing trial for multiple counts of murder, robbery, and racketeering. The courtroom is packed with spectators and family members of the victims."
In the studio, Naledi nodded gravely. "Thank you, Sarah. We've been following this case closely, and it's alleged that Mfana the Jackal led a gang responsible for a string of violent crimes across the city. The prosecution claims they have evidence linking him to the crimes, including eyewitness testimony and forensic evidence."
Sarah's voice was laced with tension as she reported live from outside the courtroom. "That's right, Naledi. The prosecution's case is expected to be strong, but the defense is likely to argue that the evidence is circumstantial. We'll be watching closely as the trial unfolds."
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As the courtroom doors opened, a hush fell over the crowd. The judge, Justice Tshepo Ledwaba, entered the courtroom, his robes flowing behind him. The courtroom erupted into a flurry of activity as the judge took his seat.
"All rise!" the clerk cried out. "The Honourable Justice Tshepo Ledwaba presiding."
The courtroom fell silent as the judge began to deliver his verdict. "This court convenes to deliver judgment in the matter of The State versus Mfana Zulu, Case Number 110/2025, as brought before the Gauteng Division of the High Court."
Advocate Sibeko, representing the prosecution, stood tall. "Your honour, with due respect, the people demand more than just formality. This man is no ordinary criminal. He is a national threat."
The judge's expression remained stern. "Advocate Sibeko, let the court do its work. You've presented your case. The time for submissions has passed."
After a lengthy deliberation, the judge finally delivered his verdict. "This court has spent over nine months hearing evidence, expert testimony, financial forensic audits, and security reports, including closed-door submissions under the National Key Points Act. The burden of proof, as enshrined in section 35(3)(h) of the Constitution, rests on the State: beyond a reasonable doubt."
The courtroom held its breath as the judge paused, his eyes scanning the room. "Having weighed the evidence, and in the absence of clear, direct, and corroborated testimony linking the accused to the physical commission or instruction of these offences...this court finds the accused, Mr. Mfana Zulu, not guilty on the charges of murder, racketeering, and corruption."
The courtroom erupted into chaos. A mourner in the gallery cried out, "He killed my son! He butchered our children!" Advocate Sibeko's face turned red with outrage. "With respect, this verdict undermines public confidence in the judiciary!"
The judge banged his gavel, calling the courtroom to order. "Order in court! I remind counsel and public that the rule of law is not based on vengeance, but on due process. The court will not entertain mob justice."
As the courtroom descended into chaos, Mfana Zulu stood up, a smirk spreading across his face. "You see? Even the law knows better than to touch royalty. The Crown protects its own."
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The scene outside the courtroom was just as chaotic. Sarah reported live, her voice strained. "An explosive scene here at the Pretoria High Court, where alleged crime lord Mfana 'The Jackal' Zulu has walked free. Legal experts call it a failure of prosecutorial power."
Naledi's expression was grave as she spoke to the camera. "Sources hint at deep connections between Zulu and KwaZulu-Natal royal families. As tensions rise, many ask: Has justice become just another crown secret?"
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