Roodepoort, South Africa – The Durban Deep community west of Johannesburg is calling for justice following the brutal murder of 14-year-old Likhona Fose, whose mutilated body was found in bushes near her home earlier this month.
The accused, 39-year-old Mduduzi Mnisi, made a brief appearance in the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, facing charges of murder. The case was postponed to next Wednesday, 18th, for a bail application, which the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has vowed to oppose due to Mnisi’s previous convictions for robbery and attempted murder.
Community Outrage
Outside the courthouse, residents held a picket, demanding harsh punishment for the alleged killer. Emotional community members, particularly women and mothers, expressed their pain and frustration over the senseless killing of a child.
“The death sentence, even, for the person who killed Likhona. He must tell us why he killed a young child,” said one protester. “We are women, we are mothers. The pain we feel—maybe the government does not understand our pain.”
Another resident called for men across South Africa to take a stand against gender-based violence and child murders: “All the men of South Africa must stand up and say, ‘Not in my name.’ If a child can say that, then everything will be sorted.”
Calls for Stronger Child Protection
The case has reignited urgent calls for stronger measures to protect children in South Africa, where violent crimes against minors remain a pressing issue. Community leaders and activists are demanding that the government take decisive action to ensure children’s safety.
“There is a lot that the government and the safety and security system has to look at,” a protester said. “The killing of a child—the government must gather all the information in detail.”
Accused Remanded in Custody
Mnisi, who appeared in court for the first time, has been remanded in custody pending further investigations. The state is conducting a thorough profile check, including his criminal history and any prior parole violations, before his bail hearing.
As the investigation continues, the Durban Deep community remains resolute in its demand for justice, hoping that Likhona’s tragic death will spur systemic change in the fight against child violence.