Johannesburg – The assault and attempted murder case against well-known businessman Edwin Sodi has been thrown out of court after both complainants failed to show up.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng Spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the assault and attempted murder case against Edwin Sodi was struck off the roll by the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, (20 March 2025).
Sodi was facing charges related to an alleged domestic violence incident in March 2022.
The matter was reported to the police by Sodi’s estranged wife, Nthateng Lerata, who laid charges against the businessman.
“The State expressed readiness to proceed with the trial, stating that it rejected the complainant’s withdrawal statement due to the widespread scourge of Gender-Based Violence in the country,” explained Mjonondwane.
However, the court took into consideration that both complainants were absent and that one of them had filed a withdrawal statement.
“The second complainant indicated that he no longer wished to proceed with the case, subsequently the defence argued that the case be struck off the roll, which was granted by the court,” said Mjonondwane.
The court ultimately struck the matter off the roll.
“The NPA remains committed to supporting victims of GBV and will continue in its efforts to combat this scourge.”
