Mpho Mafoko (33) has appeared in the Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Court charged with the murder of Thusi Molefi (30).

The bail application was postponed to September 11 after the magistrate highlighted various difficulties in proceeding with the hearing today.

Molefi died on September 6 following an alleged stabbing at the BLK Lounge in Potch Industria. The courtroom was packed with friends, family, and residents attending the hearing.

Mafoko’s legal representative, Juan Moorcroft from Johan le Grange Attorneys, said that his client was applying for bail on the grounds that he is not a flight risk and would not intimidate witnesses or family members.

Moorcroft also argued that his client should be granted bail because he is the family’s provider and being incarcerated would prevent him from working.

Mafoko is in a long-term relationship, has an 11-year-old daughter, and has a mother who is dependent on him.

Magistrate Charles Eckley has called for more evidence from the prosecution, stating he still has many questions about the case. This was after the investigating officer gave an informal account of the evidence in possession. The magistrate also instructed the defence to provide a new address for the accused.

In terms of grounds for the postponement, the magistrate referred to Section 50(6)(d) of the Criminal Procedure Act, which states that bail proceedings can be postponed for a maximum of seven days.

Mafoko will be remanded in custody until his next appearance on Friday.