MAKHADO (LOUIS TRICHARDT) - Almost one and a half years after his arrest, the State’s case of fraud against well-known local businessman Ronnie Sutherland finally went to trial this week.

Sutherland was arrested in November 2003 on a charge of fraud relating to the use of air force machinery without their consent. It is alleged that Sutherland used the air force’s Komatsu-bulldozer for private gain in the completion of a project for the Tshikombai-branch of the ZZC church. It is further alleged that Sutherland profited from the deal to the amount of almost R500 000.

Shortly prior to Sutherland’s arrest, a member of AFB Makhado, Dawid Ras, was also arrested in connection with the case. Later, the State decided to jointly try Sutherland and Ras in the case.

In December last year the Asset Forfeiture Unit seized both Sutherland’s and Ras’s assets. However, in February this year, all charges against Ras were dropped and his assets returned. The case against Sutherland continued.

Sutherland, who proclaimed his innocence from the start, finally got his “day in court” when the case went to trial on Monday. The State called various witnesses and continued its case against Sutherland on Tuesday. Although it is clear that both parties are eager to see the conclusion of the case, Sutherland’s case was postponed until August 11, 12 and 18 this year. The matter is being heard in the Regional Court in front of Magistrate Ronnie Rambau from Polokwane.

Sutherland’s legal representative, Mr Charles Pieterse, declined to comment on his client’s chances of success, stating that he would only comment after the completion of the case. He did, however, say that people should remember that a person is presumed innocent until he is proven guilty in a court of law.