THE case against Phaizel Mncube (37), who reportedly during police questioning confessed to the murder of University of Zululand student, Sikhulile Khuzwayo (22), was yesterday (Wednesday) postponed to 19 March for further investigation.
Mncube told police he strangled Khuzwayo on 21 January, dumped her body into a pit before returning the next day and burning her remains.
Appearing in a packed Ngwelezana Magistrate’s Court, Mncube remained emotionless during proceedings as calls for his bail to be refused could be heard from outside the court as members of the ANC Youth and Women’s Leagues protested.
ALSO READ: Brutal murder confession
Defence attorney Ms Mia told the court that her client would not apply for bail, which both state prosecutor Nkosiyapha Mbatha and Magistrate Nkabinda accepted.
He will remain in custody until his next court appearance.
Meanwhile, Khuzwayo’s family is still awaiting DNA test results which will finally confirm whether the burnt remains recovered are that of the young student. This will take anything between three to six months.
Speaking to the ZO after the court proceedings, Khuzwayo’s uncle, Simion Khuzwayo (60), said he was at a loss for words.
‘I don’t know how to express myself, I cannot even continue with my daily activities without thinking of what has happened,’ he said.
Sikhulile recently completed her third year of Bachelor of Arts studies.
She was an active member of the Unizulu choir and was described to the ZO as a lively, bubbly and vibrant person by
Unizulu music lecturer and choir conductor, Bhekani Buthelezi.
‘She was energetic and always wearing a smile. We cannot believe the brutality of this crime.’
Showing their support in numbers, the KZN ANC Youth League and Women’s League members made their presence known outside court.
ANC Regional Secretary for the Musa Dladla Region, Tholi Gwala, said the party would show their support to the community and the family by attending every court appearance.
Vote for your favourite business in Zululand here: BestofZululand.co.za
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp – 072 069 4169
Instagram – zululand_observer
