The Tshilwavhusiku Magistrate's Court was filled to capacity a fortnight ago, when Lutendo “Lufuno” Madome (25) appeared in connection with a charge of murder which took place at Tshikwarani village in the Kutama area.

Madome stands accused of allegedly murdering a 20-year-old female pupil, Tuwani Fhetani, on 9 January. He allegedly stabbed her to death at his home, while police officers hesitated to act outside the room. According to police's preliminary investigations, Madome had abducted Fhetani when she was on her way from Tshiungulela Secondary School, where she was doing Grade10.

The deceased’s family attended the court as well as the traditional leaders from Tshikwarani. "When cases of this nature happen among us, our duty is to show moral support to the affected household and relatives," said Mr Ludwik Mahuwa, a community leader attached to the Kutama Traditional Authority. "We will be coming to court until the final day of this case."

The case against Madome was postponed to 27 February for further investigation. He remains in custody.

Meanwhile, the office of the provincial commissioner Lt Gen Simon Mpembe had since lashed out at the members of the SAPS who attended to the complaint. “As such, we have resorted to take serious departmental steps against them and the process is underway,” said the police's provincial spokesperson Brig Hangwani Mulaudzi.