Man in court for 6 bodies faces one count of murder

The 20-year-old suspect appeared briefly in the magistrate's court on Tuesday. 

"The State is alleging that you are facing a schedule six offence, which is a serious offence, and the offence would then necessitate that a formal bail application be held as your lawyer has indicated that you are interested to apply for bail," said Magistrate Betty Khumalo.  

"So in terms of the criminal procedure act this court is obligated to indulge the State within the seven days. You are now remanded in custody to be back at this court on 18 October."

Khumalo said the man cannot be identified pending an identity parade.

The NPA has clarified that the suspect only faces one count of murder and not six as previously reported by police.

READ: Man in court after 6 decomposing bodies found in Joburg building

Meanwhile, Amnesty International South Africa says the discovery of the six bodies is a disturbing reminder of the high levels of gender-based violence.

Some of the victims are believed to have been sex workers.

Amnesty's Shenilla Mohamed says the killings also highlight the urgent need to decriminalise sex work and provide safety and protection in the industry.

"Much more needs to be done to strengthen the criminal justice system and to ensure that it acts as a deterrent to this varying levels of gender-based violence. 

"The South African Police Services and the National Prosecution Authority must ensure that justice takes its course and that the victims and their families get the justice that they deserve."