The 22-year-old man charged with the murder of Mitchells Plain drum major Chad Arendse is expected to go on trial shortly.
The suspect cannot be identified before his identity parade is completed.
He made a brief appearance at the Mitchells Plain Regional Court on Monday, where the State indicated that the investigation is complete and that prosecutors are ready to head to trial.
A regional court date will be decided on March 2.
The man’s family has previously told the Daily Voice that they believe he is innocent and would never have shot Chad as they were friends.
The suspect was granted R2000 bail last year.
He has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder.
Chad, from Beacon Valley, was the drum major for the Littlewood Primary Drill Squad and the
Western Province Marching Squad.
He was attending the 21st birthday party of a friend in Rocklands, Mitchells Plain, in June last year when he was shot multiple times resulting in his death.
Chad’s mother, Natasha Arendse, says they still want to know why her son was killed.
“My son’s life was cut short. I don’t know how I can begin to express the pain and sadness I feel in my heart and soul every minute of every day since he was taken from us.
“There are too many mothers grieving the loss of their children and the perpetrators walk free.
“We want justice. Knowing that the case is going to trial soon gives us a bit of hope.