Murder suspect attacked in court by slain girl’s family

A 27 year-old man accused of the brutal murder of an eight year-old girl, Veronique May, on Gqeberha/PE last weekend was physically attacked in court yesterday by two members of her family.
The suspect, Lelethu Nkosana, appeared in the Kariega Magistrates Court yesterday, 8 October, and after mounting the stairs from the holding cell the packed court saw firstly Veronique’s grandfather, Reggie Khumazi, and then Bulelani Khumazi, attack the suspect. While the SAPS in court were busy trying to restrain Reggie, his son then rushed and also attacked the suspect.
During this attack both men fell down the stairs and crashed into the holding cell door. The grandfather and son were taken away by the police.
The case was then postponed to Friday this week, 10 October, after Lelethu appeared briefly before the magistrate.
Witnesses said there were huge crowds outside court, waving placards and calling for justice and for Lelethu to be released to them so they could deal with him.
According to the SAPS report, Veronique was reported missing after 5 pm on Sunday at the Kamesh SAPS. A search was immediately launched by police. Info was obtained about a man Veronique was last seen with on Sunday evening.
The SAPS Kamesh found the man and for his own safety from the community he was removed to the police station. On Monday, 6 October, after being questioned the man led the investigating officer to De Booi Street, Langa, where they found her lifeless body in one of the rooms on the premises.
The suspect was arrested on charges of murder and appeared in the Kariega Magistrate’s Court yesterday, 8 October. The SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences in Kariega made the arrest.
The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, condemned the horrific act and commended the swift response by the investigating team. “The murder of a child is one of the most heartless crimes imaginable. We will ensure that justice is served for this young victim and her family,” Maj Gen Ncatha said.
The SAPS urges communities to protect children and to report any suspicious behaviour immediately to the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. “Gender-Based Violence and crimes against children remain a serious concern, and the SAPS reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes are brought to justice,” the SAPS statement said.