LIMPOPO – The father of 16-year-old Rolivhuwa Bakali, who was reportedly shot and killed by his friend, says the justice system has failed his family after the murder case against the 18-year-old suspect was withdrawn.

The incident occurred at Madombidzha on December 12 last year.

According to reports, the two friends were playing when the suspect produced a firearm and shot Rolivhuwa, a Gr 8 learner at Litshovhu High School.

The suspect was later found in possession of the weapon.

He was released on R3 000 bail, and on August 30 this year, the case was provisionally withdrawn at the Tshilwavhusiku Magistrate’s Court, with the suspect refunded his bail money.

The victim’s father, Ronald Bakali, said the family was devastated and felt betrayed by the justice system.

“I am so frustrated because I relied on the NPA, but they have failed me. I keep asking myself if there will ever be justice for my child.”

Bakali added that the family was never given a clear explanation for the case’s withdrawal.

“It pains me to see the suspect walking around freely. Once again, we have been failed by the South African justice system. Only God will judge him,” he said.

Bakali said the family still had many unanswered questions about what happened on the day of the shooting.

“We will never know what truly happened, but we will not let this go. If we have to, we will take it all the way to the minister for justice.”

Limpopo NPA spokesperson Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi confirmed that the case was struck off the roll pending further investigation.

“Ballistic results are still outstanding, but the case is not closed. The accused will be brought back to court once the Director of Public Prosecutions decides on the next step.”