By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The bail hearing for Chillspot Records producer DJ Ribhe has been postponed again and is now rescheduled for today after the State indicated it could not locate the investigating officer in time.
DJ Ribhe, who has been in pre-trial custody for nearly a month, initially had his hearing set for yesterday. It was presided over by Justice Regis Dembure, who permitted the State to file its response.
However, the State requested an additional postponement, citing difficulties in locating the investigating officer, who is reportedly off duty and has traveled to his rural home.
According to reports, the prosecution asserts that the testimony of the investigating officer is crucial for their response and for the court’s determination of DJ Ribhe’s eligibility for bail.
Justice Dembure agreed to postpone the hearing until today to allow the State to submit its written response and ensure the presence of the investigating officer in court.
DJ Ribhe faces serious charges, including the alleged drugging and rape of a 14-year-old girl.
According to the State’s case, the victim, a Form 2 student living in the same neighborhood as DJ Ribhe, visited his home before proceeding to Mashwede Village with other individuals.
At Mashwede, it is alleged that DJ Ribhe coerced the minor into consuming an unknown substance and smoking shisha. Prosecutors claim that later that night, he took the girl back to his home, where he raped her.
The victim reportedly regained consciousness the following day and realized she had been assaulted.
After being missing for two days, the girl was located by a search party. Upon questioning about her absence, she disclosed the abuse to her father.
As proceedings continue, DJ Ribhe remains in custody as the case draws significant public interest and scrutiny.