UKZN murder suspect lashes out at Magistrate, case postponed

Khayelihle Nzimande was arrested on Saturday, after emerging from a bush near the Westville campus, where the body of BCom student Simukelo Zondi was found burning.

A barefoot Nzimande stood in the dock, wearing shorts and t-shirt.

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When Magistrate Wendylyn Robinson asked about his legal representation, Nzimande lashed back at her, asking where his family was and why police had not told them about his appearance.

The 25-year-old then repeatedly asked the magistrates how that was fair to him.

A short while later, a family member was brought into the courtroom, and after speaking to him, Nzimande told the court he would be opting for legal representation for now. 

State Prosecutor, Thiveshnee Govender told the court investigators still need to verify Nzimande’s home address. He also needs to be examined by a district surgeon. 

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The matter has been postponed to next week for bail.  The State has indicated it will be opposing bail. 

Nzimande will be kept at Westville Police Station while investigations continue.

While the motive for the killing is not yet known, a video has been widely shared on social media.  

It purportedly shows the suspect confessing to the murder and referring to the victim as a, "zombie." 

Police say they are disturbed by the footage of the accused which appears to have been taken before officers arrived on scene.