The two teenagers accused of killing 19-year-old Lusanda Mathabela were again remanded in custody when they appeared in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court today, January 28.

Katlego Mokoena and Lungelo Sithole, both 18, allegedly stabbed Mathabela to death in a house in Mataffin near Mbombela Stadium on November 3, 2025.

The pair initially abandoned bail on November 12, but have since changed their minds and are proceeding with bail applications.

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Sithole’s bail hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, while Mokoena’s application will be heard on Thursday, February 26.

Several organisations that fight against gender-based violence and femicide attended today’s court session in support of Mathabela’s family.

Dr Nhlanhla Thabethe, the founder of Thandolwethu Foundation Sisonke, which is actively involved in advocating for the safety of women, was also in court.

Dr Nhlanhla Thabethe. > Photo: Supplied/Nhlanhla Thabethe“We stand in unity with fighting for justice for Lusanda and her family. We shall continue supporting them by physically showing up in court and during other events that promote justice for Lusanda to be served,” said Thabethe.