Murder suspect Nkululeko Dlamini appeared in the Brits Magistrate Court in the North West on Thursday, 20 March.
Dlamini is facing murder and kidnapping charges.
He’s also facing three additional charges of attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances and two counts of attempted extortion.
Presiding Magistrate Regan Rosenburg postponed the case to 24 April for further investigation.
Lerato Moalosi Tyobeka (19) from Modikwane, Modderspruit in Mooinooi, North West, was kidnapped and brutally murdered on 2 February 2025.
North West police spokeswoman Colonel Adele Myburgh said: “Sadly, her naked body was discovered in the bushes at Majakaneng, next to the N4 road, almost 1km from where she was kidnapped.”
Lerato’s uncle Lucky Radebe said: “The family is not okay, at all. I don’t think they will be, unless we know what’s happening with the case.
“The community is still angry. I’m hoping the community will be in full support on the next court date.”
He said the family wants justice for Lerato and will keep coming to court until the case draws to a close.
Lerato’s mum, Pauline Minki Tyobeka (43), alleged that the court isn’t treating them fairly after they were told not to speak inside the courtroom.
“We’re not coping as the family. He’s sitting there eating and bathing while we’re crying. He killed my kid,” she said.
Lerato’s aunt, Siyamthanda Nombeleko (35), said: “Those who are serious about this case is Pauline and me. We found the killer two days after Lerato was killed.”
She alleged police are failing them as other suspects are out.
“Dlamini was a tenant residing on Lerato’s street almost two years ago. We understand he was allegedly sent and treated Lerato as a kid.
“We still don’t understand why Dlamini allegedly killed Lerato,” she said.
North West NPA spokesman Sivenathi Gunya said: “The security let a large amount of people inside for that case. Court A was packed.
“The court orderly, while the court was in session and before the accused was brought out, requested the family to behave in court and when they left the court after the postponement, they were told to be quiet until they reach the gate so as not to interrupt court proceedings. The family was not escorted out by police.”
