Dewani accused makes admissions

Admits that the body found was indeed Anni Dewani, that her death was caused by a gunshot and that jewellery found at his friend's house was hers

A man made surprise admissions in the Western Cape High Court on Tuesday in connection with the murder of honeymoon bride Anni Dewani.

Xolile Mngeni, 25, who is on trial for her murder, signed a document in court confirming the body found in Khayelitsha in November, 2010, was that of Dewani’s and that her death was caused by a gunshot.

He also admitted that jewellery found in his friend’s Khayelitsha shack after the murder belonged to Dewani.

The remainder of admissions centred around the crime scene investigation and linked exhibits.

Mngeni has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping, robbing and killing the tourist.

At the start of his trial, he made no formal admissions and many witnesses were called to prove facts in the State’s case.

Deputy director of public prosecutions Adrian Mopp said the admissions had reduced the number of remaining witnesses to four or five.