Zane Kilian: Alleged cop killer’s trial postponed amidst security concerns

Zane Kilian – who is accused of the murder of top cop Charl Kinnear – has made a second appearance in court on Monday 5 October, albeit only briefly as security concerns were raised at the Bishop Lavis Magistrate’s Court. 

It was decided that the former rugby player‘s bail hearing would proceed at a different court where security measures can be adequately heightened to protect the suspect, who is believed have tracked Kinnear’s cell phone shortly before he was gunned down outside his home. 

Kilian to remain in custody  

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said that concerns over the court’s ability to protect witnesses and suspects have been raised, especially given the high-profile nature of this particular case. 

“There was a discussion in the chambers and a security issue was raised,” he said. “It was decided by all parties that the matter would have to be moved to a different court. It has been postponed, while in the meantime we will be making contact with other courts to check where we can take the matter.”

He said that threats have been made in the past and that the court that ultimately hears the case must be provided optimal security. 

“I cannot speak on issues of security, but it seems like there have been some incidents – threats to this court – before. It is therefore necessary that the matter be moved so that everyone else around this court feels safe and comfortable. It is not just this case.”

Cele vows to hunt down Kinnear’s killers  

Kilian was taken into custody on Friday 25 September in Gauteng after police embarked on an urgent intelligence driven operation to find the perpetrators responsible for Kinnear’s death. Kilian was brought down to the Western Cape and remains in police custody. 

He was charged with Murder, conspiracy to commit murder and unlawful interception of communication. 

CCTV images have emerged showing a gunman walking casually up to Kinnear’s car and firing several shots that proved fatal. Police are continuing to search for the trigger-man and other suspects who may have been linked to the murder. 

Kinnear was investigating a number of gang-related syndicates and crimes, as well as “criminality thin the police service”, according to Police Minister Bheki Cele, who spoke at Kinnear’s funeral on Saturday.