Convicted crime boss Radovan Krejcir back in court over trial delays

Convicted underworld crime boss Radovan Krejcir appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday to launch a legal application challenging delays in his outstanding criminal matters.

Krejcir will bring a Section 342A application, arguing that there have been unreasonable delays in his legal proceedings and alleging that his constitutional rights have been infringed.

Claims of unfair treatment

According to the SABC, in addition to challenging the delays, Krejcir claims he has been denied adequate healthcare and other basic amenities while in custody.

He is currently serving a 35-year prison sentence at the C-Max section of Kgosi Mampuru Correctional Centre in Pretoria following his 2015 conviction on charges including attempted murder, kidnapping and assault.

Krejcir argues that he has been treated unfairly by the state and is seeking relief through the courts.

What is a Section 342A application?

Section 342A of South Africa’s Criminal Procedure Act is designed to address unreasonable delays in criminal trials.

The provision allows a court to investigate the reasons for delays and, where necessary, take steps to prevent prejudice to the accused, the prosecution or witnesses.

Depending on the circumstances, a court may issue directives to speed up proceedings or impose other remedies aimed at ensuring a fair trial process.

Tuesday’s proceedings focused on whether the delays in Radovan Krejcir’s remaining legal matters have been unreasonable and whether any corrective action is warranted.

Is it too easy to have court proceedings drawn out longer than they need to?

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