Expert raises concern over Marli van Breda testimony

The state should think carefully about allowing Marli van Breda to testify against her brother, Henri, in his murder case, a lawyer not involved in the matter believes. Ulrich Roux, from BDK in Johannesburg, reportedly told Netwerk24 that the defence would target Marli’s retrograde amnesia. ‘The big question is whether she would regain her memory, and that would cast doubt on her testimony. How can she be sure of what happened that night,’ Roux asked. Henri (21) is accused of murdering his parents, Martin (54) and Teresa (55), and his brother, Rudi (22). Marli (17) survived, but suffered brain damage. It is still unclear if she can remember anything about the attack. She is on the list of 114 possible witnesses to testify against Henri. Roux believes the prosecution would not have to rely heavily on Marli’s testimony, as there was enough other evidence. He expects the state to build its case around circumstantial evidence. He also expects the prosecution to put the spotlight on Henri’s alleged drug abuse to cast doubt on his version of events. Roux added: ‘It is similar to the recent Oscar Pistorius case. Only the accused can tell us what really happened.’

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