The man accused of the brutal murder of 14-year-old Likhona Fose is due to appear in the Roodepoort Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, for the continuation of his bail application.
Likhona Fose suspect appears in court for bail
The suspect, 39-year-old Mduduzi Trevor Mnisi, is facing a charge of premeditated murder after Fose’s mutilated body was discovered in an open field near her home in Durban Deep more than two weeks ago.
During Tuesday’s court proceedings, Mnisi pleaded not guilty and claimed that there is video footage that can prove his innocence.
He alleged that the investigating officer in the case holds a personal grudge against him and failed to follow up on leads that could have cleared his name.
What to expect from the bail hearing
Mnisi’s bail hearing is expected to continue with further testimony from the defence. His girlfriend is scheduled to take the stand on Wednesday to support his claim that he was at her residence the night Fose went missing.
According to Mnisi, this would prove he was not with Likhona on the evening of the alleged murder.
The prosecution, however, is expected to argue strongly against granting bail. There are several factors they are likely to present:
- Seriousness of the Crime: Likhona’s body was found with visible injuries to her lower body and face, and with her pants removed. While police have not confirmed sexual assault, these details raise serious concerns.
- Previous Convictions: Court records show that Mnisi was convicted of attempted murder and robbery in 2007. He had only recently been released from prison—reportedly less than three months before being arrested in connection with Likhona’s death.
- Risk of Flight or Interference: Given the severity of the charge and public reaction, the state may argue that Mnisi poses a flight risk or could interfere with ongoing investigations.
Mnisi’s court appearances have sparked strong reactions from the community. During his initial appearance, angry residents gathered outside the court, holding placards that read “Justice for Likhona Fose.”
Many in the community say they are fearful for their children and are calling for swift justice. According to Likhona’s family, she had been last seen with a group of boys in an area known as Phase 4.
Her disappearance sparked a neighbourhood-wide search. Tragically, her death was confirmed after a message about her body circulated in a local WhatsApp group.
Likhona was raised by her grandmother and had roots in the Eastern Cape. Her death has left her family in deep mourning.
The prosecution has already indicated its intention to oppose bail.
“We need the seven days to gather all necessary information so that we can strongly oppose bail,” a state representative told the court earlier this month.
The bail hearing is expected to shed more light on the defence’s argument and the state’s grounds for continued detention.
Meanwhile, police investigations continue, and the community remains on edge as the legal process unfolds.