The murder case involving Frederick Vermeulen has been postponed once more, with proceedings now set to resume on May 29 as investigations continue.

The matter, heard at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court under Court DC 2 but proceeding at DC 5, remains ongoing as the State finalises its case.

Frederick remains in custody following earlier court decisions, including the refusal of bail.

Speaking to the newspaper, Juanita Vermeulen’s parents, Alwyn and Amalia du Plessis, described the past three months as deeply painful.

The couple said they have struggled to cope with the loss of their daughter and would not wish such an experience on any parent.

Amalia expressed how profoundly she misses Juanita.

The case stems from the death of Juanita, who was laid to rest on January 26.

During earlier proceedings, Frederick maintained that he did not plan to kill his wife, claiming the fatal stabbing occurred during a confrontation at their home.

Under cross-examination, he alleged that Juanita had attacked him, forcing him to act in self-defence. He insisted that the incident was not premeditated.

Frederick testified that their marriage had deteriorated in recent months, citing increasing tensions and alleging that Juanita had become secretive.

He also admitted to having an extramarital affair.

According to his account, Juanita had been recording their arguments, and on the day of her death, she allegedly ran into a room with a knife.

He maintains that a struggle ensued, during which she was stabbed.

The accused told the court he panicked after the incident, claiming he dragged Juanita outside and placed her in her BMW 535 with the intention of taking her to the hospital.

He said he stopped along the way near a trailer rental site, where he sought assistance from individuals to help transport her to Netcare.

Contrary to this statement, Juanita’s body was found in the boot of her car in the parking area of a shopping centre in Brackenhurst.

He testified that he later returned home, where he cleaned the house.

Frederick further alleged that Juanita had insisted on his R5 million life insurance policy and other assets, which he estimated to be worth around R11 million.

ALSO READ: Freddie Vermeulen murder case: Accused remains in custody after remote hearing

During bail proceedings earlier this year, the investigating officer opposed his release, and the court subsequently denied bail despite arguments from the defence citing exceptional circumstances.

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