Suspects in Khayelitsha teen's murder to apply for bail
Two rows of the Khayelitsha Magistrate's Court have been filled by friends and family of Sinoxolo Mafevuka ahead of the first appearance of two men charged with her rape and murder.
The two suspects, aged 21 and 26, were arrested yesterday, two weeks after the 19-year-old's half naked body was found in a communal toilet.
She had been raped and killed.
The duo arrested for the incident are understood to be related.
Magistrate Xolani Menyiwe requested that no details or addresses of the accused be released for their safety.
The two have indicated they would be applying for bail.
The matter was postponed to March 24. They will remain in custody.
Deputy police minister Maggie Sotyu last week criticised police for their handling of the case.
Officers reportedly only contacted the family for statements when Sotyu raised concerns about the low priority given to the teen’s murder.
Hundreds of people have joined a group on Facebook created to raise awareness about Mafevuka’s story, and crime in general.
The group, called "Sinoxolo, we have peace" has been working to raise more money to secure the conviction of her killers.
A march planned by the Social Justice Coalition is planned for Tuesday. The organisation is calling for a speedy investigation into the Khayelitsha murder, the deployment of specialist police to handle the case and police visibility in informal settlements.
(File photo)