Court in Standerton again postpones hit-and-run case
After the case has been postponed for the third time, the families of Mario Iyapian and Zodwa Patricia Molebatsi still believe justice can be served.
Rinus Fourie is still struggling to find peace after the death of his son, Mario Iyapian.
“My son meant the world to me. I struggle to sleep at night,” said Fourie.
He admits his grief over losing his child has affected his ability to work and he has lost his job because of repeated court dates.
Mario, who was 18 years old, was allegedly escorting Zodwa Patricia Molebatsi (34) home on February 4 when the pair died in a hit-and-run accident on Walter Sisulu Drive.
The suspect was identified after his number plate fell to the ground because of the accident’s impact.
According to Fourie, Molebatsi died on impact, however, Mario did not die until EMS arrived on the scene.
The case appeared in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court for the first time on March 26 and the suspect received bail of R1 500.
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“I struggle to understand how the suspect received R1 500 bail for murder charges when people have committed lesser crimes and received higher bail rates,” said Fourie.
The most recent court date did not yield results, as the magistrate again postponed it. The next court appearance is on October 23, pending the results of the driver’s blood tests.
The case will be heard in the regional court. Fourie is positive this case will result in justice for his lost son.
“I hope the man who killed my child is brought to justice,” he said.
The accused, Clement Skhosana, an official at the Lekwa Municipality, allegedly sped off from the accident scene.
He is facing charges of culpable homicide and reckless and dangerous driving.
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