Court Ruling On Katonha Twins’ Case Against Koala Park Set For 3 June

Lawyers representing Koala Park Abattoir say there is no reason for the company to shut down its operations along Seke Road, arguing that there is no evidence it is polluting the environment.

Herbert Muromba, of Kantor and Immerman Legal Practitioners, also questioned the role of Tendai Mayor Katonha – one of the Katonha twins – in the legal dispute.

Muromba told the court that Tendai’s name was only introduced after the application had been filed.

He asked the court to dismiss the application, which relies on parts of a report submitted by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA).

He said the EMA’s findings did not provide evidence to support the concerns raised by the applicants.

“It is our wish and request that the application be dismissed with costs,” said Muromba.

“There is no reason for Koala Park Abattoir to close, and there is no evidence of causing air pollution as alleged.”

The Katonha twins say their application remains valid despite the challenge to Tendai’s name.

They maintain that their interdict is not intended to close the abattoir outright, but to stop the company from continuing certain practices, including keeping dozens of cattle near Seke Road.

The twins allege that this is causing air pollution, an unbearable odour and dust emanating from the premises.

They accused Koala Park of selectively addressing parts of the EMA report.

They claim the company failed to respond properly to the issues raised and was fined for partial compliance and for failing to comply with environmental laws.

Provincial magistrate Yeukai Dzuda postponed the ruling to 3 June.

Dzuda had ordered both parties to respond to the EMA report before judgment is delivered.

More: H-Metro