Slain Liezel de Jager's husband to spend Christmas behind bars

Werner de Jager made a brief second appearance in local court on Thursday, with the case postponed to January.

The court heard assessments of his mental condition are not complete.

His wife, Liezel de Jager, was found strangled to death at their home two years ago.

She was a pastor at NG Kerk Suidkus.

The South African Police Service Cold Case Unit has taken over the matter. 

Spokesperson for the victim's family Ian Cameron, who is from Action Society, says they are relieved Werner is staying behind bars for now.

ALSO READ: Liezel de Jager's husband back in court

"Today's news was taken very positively. I think it is a relief for them to know that they can spend Christmas in peace with their little girls. So it is positive in that sense. 

"They still feel the relief of the fact that at least some one has been arrested. Obviously they understand the investigation is ongoing and there is new information coming to light.

"I think it gives them a little bit of peace as well, just the fact that someone is behind bars immediately puts you a little more at ease, but still it will never bring back Liezel."