A rape and murder case of Angela Arries from Dukathole informal settlement was postponed for the second time at the Germiston Magistrate’s Court, leaving the victim’s family frustrated and demanding answers.

The incident, which occurred on May 26, saw five suspects arrested in connection with the crime.

The accused made their first court appearance on May 27, where the matter was postponed to June 4.

During that appearance, the case was set down for a bail application.

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However, proceedings were once again postponed, and the matter is now expected to return to court on June 12.

According to information before the court, the five suspects were known to the victim, as they reside in the same area.

One of the male suspects faces charges of both rape and murder, while the remaining suspects face charges of murder.

The suspects are three women and two men. According to the family, her body was found in a veld close to Dukathole. People discovered the body and called the police to the scene.

The victim’s family has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the handling of the case by the police.

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They claim they have not been contacted by investigators and have not even been provided with a case number.

“We are in the dark. We have no information regarding the case. As the family, we would like to see justice being served,” said the victim’s uncle, Sidwell Mdlungu.

Mdlungu said that the family is saddened by Angela’s passing, as she had a long life ahead of her.

She leaves behind her two children, aged 11 and 3. The family says the loss has been devastating, particularly for the children who still needed their mother.

“They have robbed Angela’s children of their mother. They are still so young,” said Mdlungu.

Ward 39 Clr Ntuthuzelo Mpambani has also weighed in on the matter, calling for justice and raising concerns about safety in the Dukathole informal settlement.

The councillor highlighted the need for improved security and stronger intervention to protect residents in the area. “This should have never happened.

A young mother losing her life like this, justice must be delivered for this family,” said Mpambani. He urged the community to be vigilant and careful about their surroundings.

The councillor was also present when the body was discovered in the veld.

“As the community we are in, shocked and upset to have witnessed such a terrible incident,” said Mpambane.