Modack denies using 'middleman' Poole to orchestrate murders as cross-examination concludes

Alleged underworld gang boss Nafiz Modack today denied using co-accused Ziyaad Poole as a middleman to orchestrate murders on his behalf.

The prosecution wrapped up its lengthy cross-examination of Modack in the Western Cape High Court today. Modack, who faces 122 charges, is on trial along with 14 others in the Western Cape High Court.

READ: Nafiz Modack maintains innocence as marathon cross-examination concludes

State Prosecutor Greg Wolmarans concluded his 29-day cross-examination of Nafiz Modack by reminding the court about the testimony of self-confessed hitman, referred to as "Mister A."

"Mister A" told the court co-accused Ziyaad Poole recruited him as a hitman on behalf of Modack in 2019. The self-confessed hitman testified he met Modack after he murdered Hawks officer Nico Heerschap’s father in July 2019 and was praised for the murder.

He told the court that, after being instructed by Poole, he went on to murder tow truck driver Richard Joseph in September 2019, before making failed attempts on the lives of defence attorney William Booth and alleged underworld figure Andre Naudé.

Wolmarans presented the timeline of the alleged arrangement: "We talked about this 24th of August 2019 meeting at Stikland at the Engen garage. Mister A said that is where he engaged with you and Accused Number Three. You say no such meeting took place?"

Modack responded:

"That's right, My Lord."

The matter will return to court in January next year.