THE man who is accused of murdering seven-year-old Nhlalwenhle Magwaza of Umbumbulu, is still undergoing mental evaluation to see if he is fit to stand trial when the case resumes on February 26.

Also read: Missing Umbumbulu girl found dead

The 40-year-old man was arrested on January 8 after he pointed out the remains that are believed to be those of Nhlalwenhle. The child had gone missing on November 23, 2025, after she failed to reach home while walking from a nearby shop. The accused, who is related to the victim’s family, made his first appearance in the Umbumbulu Magistrate’s Court on January 12 and offered to confess to the crime. The court, however, did not allow him to as he had not appointed a legal representative at that point.

Addressing the public during a memorial service held at Nhlalwenhle’s school, her mother, S’mangele Magwaza, said it still feels like a dream.

“I didn’t expect my child to leave me while she was still so young,” said Magwaza.

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