Charges withdrawn for one accused in Killarney precious-stones case

One of three people accused in an authorised raid in Killarney in 2023 had all charges withdrawn, the court heard on Thursday, and was released after the prosecution confirmed the charges would not proceed.

Court confirms withdrawal

The accused, Etienne van der Walt, was released after the court confirmed that the state had withdrawn all charges against him. His legal representative told the court that representations made to the director of public prosecutions had been successful.

Co-accused remain before the court

The two co-accused, Adrian Mackenzie and Kersha-Leigh Stols, will continue with their schedule-six bail application on Thursday.

Context

The charges relate to an alleged precious stones incident during an authorised raid in Killarney in 2023.

This is a developing story.