The murder trial against Katlego Mokoena and Lungelo Sithole is scheduled for the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court sitting in Mbombela from May 17 to 28 next year.

Mokoena and Sithole (both 19) briefly appeared in the Nelspruit District Court on Tuesday, August 25, where the State served them with an indictment and transferred the matter to the High Court.

The suspects, who have since been denied bail, allegedly fatally stabbed 19-year-old Lusanda Mathabela to death at her parents’ home in Mataffin on November 3, 2025.

Details of Mataffin attack emerge

It is alleged that on the day of the incident, the accused hired an Uber driver to transport them to the victim’s residence, where they allegedly gained entry by jumping over the wall.

They allegedly stabbed Mathabela several times, killing her on the spot and leaving her body in a pool of blood.

The accused are alleged to have tried to interfere with evidence by attempting to mop up the blood on the floor before trying to flee from the scene.

They were allegedly found at the crime scene, and the victim’s lifeless body was discovered in the bathroom.

ALSO READ: Lusanda Mathabela’s suspected killers appear in Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court

Bail refused over public interest

During the denial of their bail early this year, the court considered the serious nature of the charge and the significant public interest generated within the community where the crime was committed.

The court found that releasing the accused on bail pending trial would likely disturb public order and undermine peace and security.

It further concluded that granting bail would undermine confidence in the criminal justice system and the proper administration of justice.

ALSO READ: Mbombela NGO stand against bail in Lusanda Mathabela killing

NPA and family welcome High Court transfer

The NPA welcomed the transfer of the matter to the High Court and reiterated its commitment to the fight against gender-based violence and femicide.

“The NPA remains steadfast in ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and face the full might of the law,” said Mpumalanga NPA spokesperson Monica Nyuswa.

Lusanda’s father Given Mathabela said the family was relieved that the trial was heading to the High Court.

“This is a step in the right direction as we can realise that the wheels of justice are in motion. We definitely want closure as a family. It is also crucial to us to know what really happened to our daughter and the reasons thereof,” said Mathabela.