Leonard Mzingeli, the man accused of the murdering 17-year-old Amahle Quku, will face more charges when his case moves to the Western Cape High Court next month.
Amahle’s bruised and naked body was found on a field in Philippi in June.
The accused appeared via video link from Pollsmoor Prison at the Wynberg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
In July, the Daily Voice published the story of Grace Mufadu, who alleged she had been stabbed and raped by Mzingeli last year.
Now the 25-year-old face charges of rape and attempted murder for allegedly stabbing Grace and leaving her for dead.
In the meantime, while DNA results in Amahle’s case are still outstanding, the state revealed that they have several witnesses and only two statements are yet to be submitted.
Outside court, protesting community members sang songs and called for the harshest punishment.
Amahle’s mother, Mandulele Quku, believes had police arrested Leonard for the attack on Grace, her daughter might still be alive.
“They (police) should have long locked him away. Amahle would still be here if they did their job,” she said.
“I am grateful for the support I have received so far.”
Mzingeli abandoned his bail application at his last appearance in July and remains behind bars.
Siya Monakali from Ilitha Labantu, a women and children’s rights organisation, says he hopes the case moves faster.
“I hope the case is treated with the seriousness it deserves. There needs to be a heightened level of seriousness from our justice system,” he said.
“If the suspect was arrested for the previous charge, definitely Amahle would still be alive today.” Mzingeli’s next court appearance is on 17 November.