Nosipho Gumede

Magistrate Goolam Bawa has allowed for the accused to be named and photographed by the media.

Luyanda Botha, the man accused of the rape and murder of slain UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana made his second court appearance at the Wyneburg Magistrate court earlier today.

Botha refused to apply for bail because he fears for his life, and the case was postponed to the 7th of November where he will appear at Wyneberg Court and he will be formally transferred to the Cape Town High Court on the 15th of November 2019.

According to Rodney de Kock, of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) who will lead the State’s case, all documents relating to the investigation has been handed to the defence. “A complete docket off all evidence as well as the post mortem report have also been handed to the defence,” said de Kock.

The 42-year-old Post Office worker faces two charges of rape, murder and defeating the ends of justice.

Mrwetyana’s alleged killer allegedly burnt her body and then buried her in a shallow grave after raping and killing her inside the Clareinch Post Office in Claremont.

Botha’s first court appearance in September left many flabbergasted and heartbroken as he revealed the staggering details of Uyinene’s death.

According to a statement read by prosecutor Nomnikelo Konisi during the first court appearance, “The student went to the post office to inquire about a parcel but was told by the accused to come back later because the electricity was off at that time. She returned and he was alone at the post office.”

“He locked the door, assaulted her and penetrated her vagina and she fought back. When he heard her screaming he took a scale inside the post office and hit her. He then dumped her body in Lingelethu West.”

Blood was found inside the post office and on his shoe when he was arrested.