LAWYER representing one of the accused in a case in which over M4 million was stolen from the First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho in 2008 has accused police investigating the case of perpetuating the crime by withholding evidence.

Advocate Monaheng Rasekoai who is representing Lehlohonolo 'Mote, made these remarks on Friday during the cross-examination of one of the investigating officers, Inspector Motilinyane.
He said the loss of M4 million renders the case a high profile matter, adding that as a result, investigators should be competent. He said the witness was deliberately avoiding to disclose the amount of money recovered during the investigations.
The witness had testified that a note book which he used during the investigations was torn therefore he did not bring it with him to court.

He said he could not give the exact amount which was recovered but could recall that it was close to M2 million, not M6 000 which was suggested by the defense.

He said an LMPS 12 document supporting his evidence will be tendered in as part of evidence later, although it has not yet been filed.
But Advocate Rasekoai said there has been a 'cocktail' of mishaps in the investigations. He pointed out that the destruction of a camera bearing evidence was convenient, adding that it is by design that the notebook is also torn.

 He questioned the non-filing of the document indicating the amount of money recovered.