Tiffany Meek’s legal team has vowed to continue to fight for her freedom, claiming Jayden-Lee’s real killer is roaming the streets while his mother languishes in jail.
Reacting to the 31-year-old’s bail denial, her lawyer, Noven Naidoo, revealed that they plan to rope in an alternative investigative unit in a bid to exonerate their client.
The Roodepoort Magistrate Court found Meek’s conduct following Jayden-Lee’s disappearance to have been deeply suspicious — specifically criticising her decision to sleep at her mother’s home the night the 11-year-old boy went missing.
The magistrate said Meek misled the court in her affidavit; presented unfounded allegations, and that her release would likely disturb public peace and order, given the high emotional stakes and widespread community outrage.
Dressed in a black tracksuit, Meek stood in the dock and whispered a prayer while awaiting her fate.
The court emphasised the seriousness of the charges she faces, which include murder, defeating the ends of justice, and obstructing justice. Her actions, the court noted, did not align with those of a concerned parent.
Meek has so far spent 18 days in custody.
Her legal team has indicated that she wants a different investigative unit to take over the case, alleging police overlooked critical leads during the early stages of the investigation.
For its part, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is confident it has a strong case against the 31-year-old, despite much of its evidence being circumstantial.
The organisation’s Phindi Mjonondwane says they have their work cut out.
A large and emotional crowd of Fleurhof residents gathered outside court — holding placards and chanting in support of the slain Jayden-Lee.
The mood was charged; with many residents warning they would have taken matters into their own hands had Meek been granted bail.
Gauteng Deputy Police Commissioner Fred Kekana addressed the crowd, assuring them of continued efforts to secure justice.
The community has vowed to attend all court appearances until the case is finalised.
Community member, Maria Mtshali, says owes the public an explanation of why she “killed” her son.
Meek continues to deny involvement in her son’s disappearance and death.
She is expected back in court on September 17 and the state has indicated that it may request a postponement to conclude further investigations. Written by Lebohang Ndashe
Written by: Lindiwe Mabena
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