Accused in Zuma death plot denied bail

A South African court Wednesday denied bail to three of the four right-wing group members accused of plotting to kill ruling ANC leaders including President Jacob Zuma during the party’s December conference.

Leader of the newly formed Federal Freedom Party (FFP) Hein Boonzaaier was the only one granted a conditional bail of 80,000 rand ($8,916).

The organisation which wants a separate state for white minority Afrikaners immediately suspended Boonzaaier after his arrest.

His co-accused Johan Prinsloo, Mark Trollip and Martin Keevy were remanded in custody until their next court appearance on March 25.

The men were arrested on December 16 at different locations on suspicion of plotting to kill Zuma and top ANC leaders.

News of their arrest was initially kept under wraps, as police tightened security around the conference venue.

Police claimed they were found in possession of arms and ammunition and they face treason and terrorism charges.

But their party has rejected claims the men were caught with arms and explosives.