The defence in the Lerato Bridget Rapeio (22) case called its last witness yesterday.

The matter is being heard in the Mpumalanga High Court in Middelburg.

Rapeio is accused of killing former primary school teacher Grace Sebothoma (64) on September 6, 2023.

According to initial police reports, Rapeio and her 15-year-old co-accused stabbed Sebothoma multiple times and robbed her of her personal belongings at Loding Village near Vaalbank, KwaMhlanga.

The teenager pleaded guilty and is currently serving an 18-year sentence for murder.

On Wednesday, the defence called Faith Mackay, who works for the Department of Higher Education as a supervisor for teachers and students.

She testified about a school register from Greenside Centre, where Rapeio attended before the alleged murder took place.

According to the register, which covers the period from September 4–8, 2023, Rapeio was present at school on the day of the murder.

The state argued that even if she did sign the register, it doesn’t prove that she didn’t leave the campus before the end of the school day.

The state and defence agreed to submit their written heads of argument today (Thursday), and the matter was postponed to Friday for arguments.

Rapeio’s bail remains extended until her next court hearing.