A 49 year old suspect, who was arrested in connection with the Parliament fire, has briefly appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s court.

Zandile Mafe is facing 5 counts, including charges of housebreaking, theft and arson. It’s suspected he broke into the precinct through a back window.

The state has indicated it will oppose bail.

The case has been remanded until 11 January for the state to gather bail information and to inspect the crime scene. Investigators have not yet been able to access Parliament. The accused will remain in custody.

According to the charge sheet, Mafe had laptops, documents and kitchenware in his possession.

He is accused of placing containers with flammable liquids in the parliamentary complex and setting it alight, with the intention of damaging or destroying the Parliament building. He denies all charges.

Meanwhile, the Hawks have not ruled out that other persons may have been involved.