Man (63) accused of rape and murder of 6-year-old abandons bail
“Our hearts are still in so much pain. The way she died was so painful. We keep asking ourselves how she died and the pain she endured.”
A man accused of killing and raping a six-year-old girl did not apply for bail during his appearance at the Soshanguve magistrate’s court this past Friday.
George Shapo (63) is accused of raping and killing Mbali Mkhize on 24 December 2019. Her body was found dumped in the bushes near block PP2.
The case was postponed to 29 October for further investigations and a formal bail application at the Soshanguve magistrates’ court on Friday.
According to the state prosecutor, Shapo’s legal representatives said he would not apply for bail during Friday’s court appearance. His legal team was unable to confirm his address – one prerequisite for a successful bail application.
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However, he may apply during his next court appearance.
The prosecutor also said that Shapo’s DNA test analysis results – part and parcel of a rape trial – were outstanding.
Outside of court the grandfather to the deceased, Philemon Mkhize, said the family is still crippled by pain by what happened to his granddaughter.
“Our hearts are still in so much pain. The way she died was so painful. We keep asking ourselves how she died and the pain she endured.”
Family spokesperson Calvin Mkhize said regardless of the outcome of the case, Mkhize said nothing would ever be able to bring Mbali back.
This deeply saddened the family, he said.
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Early this year former EFF Chairperson in Gauteng, Mandisa Mashego described the rape and murder, allegedly committed by the accused, as evil.
She also took a stand against the scourge of violence against South African women and children.
“South African women and children are under immeasurable siege and the “business-as-usual” life sentences are not helping or serving as a deterrent.”
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