Forensic pathologist Dr Reggie Perumal took the stand on Tuesday as the trial of Jason Rohde for the alleged murder of his wife continues.

The prosecution was quick to call the witness’ credibility into question, producing a 2016 judgment that referred to Perumal’s evidence as speculative.

This is not Perumal’s first appearance in a high-profile murder trial; he was also hired by the defence of Paralympian Oscar Pistorius.

The expert testified on issues including the alcohol content in the bloodstream of the deceased, Susan Rohde.

Under cross-examination from the prosecution, Perumal was forced to admit he is not a medical microbiologist.

Prosecutor Louis van Niekerk produced a judgment delivered by the High Court in Durban in 2016. The judgment was made in an appeal for a drunk-driving case, where the forensic pathologist’s testimony was dismissed.

“Dr Perumal confirmed that he is not a medical microbiologist. He is not registered as a microbiologist with the [Health Professions Council of South Africa].”

Read more on the Caxton publication, The Citizen.