At 8.30 am on Wednesday, 16 November, outside the Randfontein Magistrates’ Court, a group of family members and friends demanded justice for the woman who was recently found murdered in her car.

It was the first court appearance of the suspect, who has been charged with murder. Before the court proceedings, the family of the deceased gathered outside protesting against the granting of bail for the suspect. However, as the suspect was only arrested on Monday, and this was his first court appearance, this hearing was not a bail application hearing.

The Herald attended the court proceedings, which were presided over by Magistrate Elbie Botha. The support for the deceased woman was immense – the courtroom was packed, and a number of people gathered outside in the hall way. Some of the family were even sitting on the floor in the courtroom, before Magistrate Botha entered.

Magistrate Botha confirmed that the charge against the suspect was one of murder. She also confirmed that the victim had been stabbed repeatedly before succumbing to her injuries.

The atmosphere in the courtroom was extremely tense, and emotions flared when the small-framed suspect appeared. At the close of the proceedings, the police waited for the family to exit the courtroom before they escorted the suspect out, in order to ensure his safety.

The case has been postponed to Tuesday, 29 November, when the suspect, who has legal representation, will apply for bail.

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