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Gupta-linked accused to start defence in 2026 as court rejects discharge request

# The High Court in Johannesburg has dismissed an attempt by several accused in a state capture corruption case to have the charges withdrawn under the Criminal Procedure Act. The case involves former Mineral Resources deputy director-general Joel Raphela, Ronica Ragavan, Pushpaveni Govender, and Gupta-linked companies Optimum Coal Mine and Tegeta Exploration and Resources. . They face eleven charges, including fraud, money laundering, and environmental violations. Investigating Directorate Against Corruption spokesperson Henry Mamothame says the matter resumes in May next year, with the defence expected to call witnesses.