The Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court heard testimony on Tuesday from Pinky Gantso, the girlfriend of Mduduzi Mnisi, the man accused of murdering 14-year-old Likhona Fose. Mnisi is currently seeking bail while facing charges for the brutal killing of the teenager, whose mutilated body was discovered in a field in Durban Deep on June 1, just days after she went missing from her home.
Alibi Dispute in Court
Gantso testified that Mnisi spent the night at her home on Saturday, May 31, and remained with her until Sunday evening—the same period during which Fose disappeared and was later found dead. “He spent Saturday night with me. We were together the whole day on Sunday, and he only left around 6 PM,” Gantso told the court.
However, conflicting reports emerged during proceedings. A neighbor, identified only as Anelisa, allegedly informed Gantso about the victim’s identity, though Gantso claimed she could not verify the information. The state presented an affidavit from Nelis Wimjali, who stated that Mnisi was the last person seen with Fose before her death.
Defense Challenges State’s Case
Mnisi’s defense team argued that the state lacks concrete evidence linking him to the crime, aside from Wimjali’s statement. They questioned the validity of the arrest, suggesting that Mnisi’s safety has been compromised due to community suspicions.
“Effectively arresting the accused without linking him to the offense has placed him in danger, with the community now opposing his bail,” the defense argued.
Pending Evidence
Investigating officer Moses Samosa acknowledged that no direct evidence currently ties Mnisi to the murder. Authorities are still awaiting crucial video footage from nearby cameras, which Mnisi claims could prove his innocence. However, technical delays—such as the camera owner’s lack of a password—have hindered retrieval.
Additionally, police are reviewing Mnisi’s cellphone records and seeking confirmation of his alibi, including possible CCTV footage from a McDonald’s in Davidson where he claims to have been on Saturday.
Bail Hearing Adjourned
The state has called for Mnisi’s parole officer to testify on July 9, when the bail hearing will resume. Meanwhile, the case has drawn significant attention, with community members expressing outrage over Fose’s killing.
Likhona Fose’s tragic death has left the Roodepoort community in mourning as the legal battle over her alleged killer’s fate continues.
