South African state prosecutors sought permission on Friday to appeal Oscar Pistorius' six-year murder sentence saying it was too lenient, but his defence argued the state was prejudiced and had dragged the case on for too long. Women's rights groups say Pistorius has received preferential treatment compared to non-whites and those without his wealth or international celebrity status. "The respondent fired four shots through the door and never offered an acceptable explanation for doing so," Nel said, reiterating that the sentence was "shockingly lenient". Masipa said she would issue her ruling later on Friday on whether the prosecution can appeal the sentence. The track star was treated in hospital for wrist injuries earlier this month, but prison officials said Pistorius denied trying to kill himself.

Source: dna August 26, 2016 09:31 UTC