CAPE TOWN - The man charged with the murder of Siphokazi Booi had an assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm case against him after he allegedly attacked the 27-year-old.
Sithobele Qebe appeared at the Paarl Magistrates Court on Wednesday, with his case now postponed to September 13.
He is charged with the murder of Booi, whose charred remains were discovered on Sunday in Mbekweni.
Her friends last saw her apparently arguing with the Qebe in his shack. Irate residents had demolished his home and set alight his car.
“The accused has another case against him of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after he beat up Siphokazi Booi. He is supposed to return to court for that case on 4 October 2021. The State is going to combine the two cases and will oppose the accused's bail application,” said National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila.
Booi’s family had been planning to move her to the Eastern Cape, away from him but were waiting for her eye operation, following the alleged assault by Qebe.
Her grandfather, Peacock Booi, said: “We also had to wait for October 4 when the boyfriend was due to appear in court for the assault. It is heartbreaking that today we are here under these circumstances,” he said.
Booi’s aunt, Nontando, said the family was not able to view the body for any closure.
“Imagine as the family being told you cannot identify the body of your loved one because it has been burnt beyond recognition. We are hoping other women who are in abusive relationships can leave them while they still can, especially if they have supportive families,” she said.
Luxolo Mvandaba, chairperson of NPO Unmasking a Man’s Emotions, said: “We don’t want him back here or in any other community for that matter.”
Cape Times