Court orders SAPS to expedite forensic reports in Bouwer murder case
The Pomona businessman is accused of fatally shooting his parents, stepdaughter, and domestic worker in January 2023.
The Gauteng High Court, sitting at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court, will issue an order compelling the SAPS Forensic Unit and Criminal Record Centre (CRC) to provide the outstanding forensic reports in the high-profile case of Anton Bouwer — the Pomona businessman accused of murdering members of his family.
Bouwer allegedly killed his parents, Robert (78) and Bettie (73), at their Bredell home, before driving to his house in Fairleads and fatally shooting his stepdaughter, Natasha (23), and domestic worker, Elizabeth Mahlangu (56), on January 22, 2023. He appeared in court again on June 11.
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State prosecutor Carla Britz informed the court that ballistic, DNA and fingerprint analysis reports remain outstanding. The only report received since the previous appearance was from Toyota SA, detailing the movements of the Toyota Hilux Bouwer was allegedly driving on the day of the murders.
Judge Cassim Moosa questioned why the essential forensic reports had not yet been received. Britz responded that she was unsure of the reason for the delay.
Defence advocate Hugo van der Westhuizen expressed concern, noting that at the previous court appearance, investigating officer Pleasure Mufamadi had assured the court the reports would be finalised within three months — a deadline now drawing closer, still without results.
Judge Moosa acknowledged the defence’s frustration, emphasising the accused’s right to a fair and speedy trial while also recognising the State’s need for a thorough investigation.
He noted the delays appeared to be beyond the control of both the investigating officer and the prosecutor, due to ongoing challenges.
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Moosa requested Van der Westhuizen to allow the State additional time to address the matter, as the court adjourns for recess until next month. He granted the State more time to obtain the outstanding reports, adjourning the matter to July 25.
At the previous appearance on March 27, Van der Westhuizen indicated he was considering filing an application under Section 342A of the Criminal Procedure Act, which allows courts to intervene in cases of unreasonable delay to secure bail for his client.
Britz stated that the State would oppose such an application, citing concerns from the legal representative of one of the surviving victims, who reportedly lives in constant fear of Bouwer despite his incarceration.
