All accused in court for trial within a trial in asbestos case

The trial within a trial in the asbestos roofing removal case has resumed in the Free State High Court.

The defense is cross examining the investigating officer who was among those who went to the US to interview Moroadi Cholota, one of the 17 accused.

Cholota, who is the former personal assistant of former Premier Ace Magashule, is challenging her extradition process, saying it was unlawful.

The investigating officer has since denied Cholota’s allegations of wrongdoing during her extradition from the US.

The trial relates to a R255-million asbestos roofing removal tender.

More accused have shown interest in participating in the trial within the trial as more evidence being revealed implicates them.

Magashule’s legal representative says they will also cross examine the state witness.

It has also been highlighted that the initial trial will be delayed until the trial within a trial is concluded.

Meanwhile all accused are present in court.