Justice for Lolitha Kowa murder case postponed

A Khayelitsha couple, Odwa Jack and Nokuthula Matyeseni, are set to appear at the Khayelitsha Magistrate's Court today, facing grave charges related to the tragic death of seven-year-old Lolitha Kowa.

- MANDILAKHE TSHWETE

The couple was arrested on July 23 after Lolitha’s lifeless body was discovered about 1.5km from her home. She had been reported missing the previous day, having last been seen playing with Matyeseni's daughter.

The charges against Jack and Matyeseni include kidnapping, rape, and murder, with an additional count of kidnapping added as the investigation unfolded.

The severity of these allegations has shocked the local community, prompting widespread outrage and calls for justice. During a previous court appearance on August 20, the couple abandoned their bail application after their lawyer disclosed that the address they provided for lodging during the trial had been rejected.

The State opposed bail, arguing that the couple posed a flight risk, particularly after their home was reportedly set on fire by community members who were outraged by the allegations.

The investigation into Lolitha’s death has been thorough, with law enforcement officials collecting DNA evidence from under the child's fingernails. However, results from other DNA samples taken from her body remain outstanding, contributing to the delays in the case.