Sibonginkosi Mabika

A University of KwaZulu-Natal student, Khayelihle Nzimande who is accused of burning his roommate to ashes appeared in Pinetown Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The 25-year old is accused of burning his roommate, Simukelo Zondi whose ashes were found burning in the bushes near the rugby field on the Westville campus on Saturday morning.

Barefooted, Nzimande lashed out to stop court proceedings asking where his family was and why police haven’t informed them of his appearance. Screaming “idiots”, he said police had denied him the right to call his family to discuss his legal representation. The Magistrate allowed him to speak to a family member that was present.

The State opposed his bail application as he is accused of a schedule 5 offence.  The accused will remain in custody until the next appearance on the 21st of October for bail & further investigations. He will be using a legal aid for now.

On Monday morning, UKZN management suspended the academic programme to allow staff and students to pay their respects and engage in proceedings in memory of Simukelo Zondi.

The institution also held a peaceful march to fight against campus violence.

Picture: Sandile Ndlovu