Publications
Partners
Prominent businessman Hlumelo Biko appeared briefly in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Thursday on a charge of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm to his wife.
Biko’s wife of less than two years, Sandisiwe Magqaza, laid the domestic violence assault charge on New Year’s Day at the Camps Bay police station.
According to reports, a disagreement had broken out between the businessman and his 27-year-old wife during which he allegedly demanded “his” wedding ring from her and proceeded to assault her.
Attorney Roy Barendse, representing Biko, said in short statement that Biko intended to plead not guilty.
“At this point in time we want to put it out there that he vehemently denies committing any assault,” Barendse said.
“We know that certain allegations have been made against him and his family. We will deal with those allegations when the appropriate time arrives,” he said.
The case has been postponed to February 27 pending further investigation. Biko was released on a warning to be at court by 8.30am on that day.
Biko is the son of late Black Consciousness icon Steve Biko and struggle activist and businesswoman Mamphela Ramphele.
