The case, which began on Monday, 7 September, will return from Monday, 11 January to Friday, 15 January for further trial proceedings. Pesa Pheko’s wife, Nombulelo Pheko, and her co-accused, Motlatsi Ramosoeu, are facing charges linked to Pheko’s murder.

Pheko was reported missing more than three years ago after he was last seen leaving his home in L Section, Botshabelo, to travel to Bloemfontein for a hospital appointment. His family later received confirmation that DNA extracted from the burnt body of an unidentified man found near Dealesville matched a member of Pheko’s family.

Pheko’s brother, Khausu Pheko, said the latest postponement followed delays during the trial, including lengthy questioning by the defence. “For us, it’s not good. It’s like we can just finish this thing and then move on with our lives,” said Pheko. “Having so many delays now and then, it’s killing us.

“It’s painful, and our mom can’t cope. Whenever the trial date comes, you can see that she’s breaking; she’s not coping well. I would like to see to it that the case continues without any delays, and also that justice be served.

“I just want this thing to end, and I just want justice for my brother. It’s been more than three years since Pesa was reported missing, and the delays are not good at all. We’ll just let the law take its course, and I hope that when the time comes, everyone will see what exactly the truth is.”

In October last year, the High Court granted Nombulelo Pheko bail of R25,000 and Ramosoeu bail of R5,000 under strict conditions. The conditions included regular reporting to police and restrictions on contact with or interference with state witnesses.

The accused are facing one count of murder and two counts of conspiracy to commit murder. The charges against the accused are:

Count 1: Conspiracy to commit murder: Between March and August 2023, near Botshabelo, the accused intentionally conspired with an individual to procure the murder of Pesa Pheko and Sanna Pheko, his mother.

Count 2: Conspiracy to commit murder: In September 2023, near Fleurdal Mall, the accused conspired with another individual and others to aid in the murder of Pesa Pheko and Sanna Pheko.

Count 3: Murder: In July 2023, in the district of Dealesville, the accused unlawfully and intentionally killed Pesa Pheko, and the death of the deceased resulted from physical abuse and was premeditated.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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