Nicole Johnson’s bail application has been postponed after a dispute over cellphone records disrupted proceedings in the Western Cape High Court.

Johnson, a Cape businesswoman, appeared in court on Monday for her latest attempt to secure bail. However, the matter did not proceed after her defence raised concerns about records it said had not been provided by the State.

Cellphone records delay Nicole Johnson bail application

The Nicole Johnson bail application was expected to move forward on Monday, but the hearing turned into a dispute over evidence.

According to the source report, Johnson’s advocate, Naseerah Essa, criticised the State for allegedly failing to hand over cellphone records despite the matter being on the court roll since 2023. The court heard that the records could run to nearly 900 pages.

Judge Mas-udh Pangarker questioned why the issue could not be dealt with during pre-trial proceedings later this year. The State said it believed the matter had already been resolved and said it had no problem providing the records.

As a result, the court postponed the bail matter to 25 May 2026.

Charges linked to POCA, theft and fraud

Johnson faces serious charges under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, commonly known as POCA. The allegations include being part of a pattern of criminal activity, theft of a black BMW valued at more than R326,000, and fraud.

A separate Daily Voice report also said Johnson’s third bid for bail was halted after the court dispute over the alleged missing cellphone records.

The State previously said its cross-examination in an earlier bail application focused on tracking company recordings rather than the cellphone records now at issue.

Supporters gather outside court

Outside court, Johnson’s supporters held posters calling for her release on bail. They said her children were waiting for her and argued that her freedom would bring them hope.

Johnson’s legal team also indicated outside court that it would continue to pursue the evidence issue. However, no bail decision was made on Monday.

The Nicole Johnson bail application is now expected to continue later this month, once the disputed records have been handed to the defence.