The Maluti Regional Court is expected to hear a psychiatric report today to determine whether murder accused Noxolo Pindela is mentally fit to stand trial.
Pindela, 33, is accused number two in the case involving the kidnapping and murder of Simbongile Sehlwayi. She is appearing alongside four co-accused, including her mother. The group allegedly killed Sehlwayi in December 2021 at Pindela’s home in Maluti, where the victim was reportedly working as a drug runner.
During a previous court appearance in November, Pindela told the court she was mentally unstable and requested psychiatric evaluation. While the State, led by Advocate Phumullo, agreed, concerns were raised that the move could be a delay tactic, particularly as her co-accused have been in custody for nearly three years.
At the time, the court revoked her bail of R20,000 and ordered her to be remanded in custody, noting that claims of mental instability could indicate a potential danger to those around her.
In March 2026, Pindela was admitted to Fort England Psychiatric Hospital for observation, where specialists compiled a report that will be shared before the court.
The findings will determine whether she can proceed with trial. Pindela remains the only accused yet to testify, and should she be declared fit, the court is expected to set a date for the continuation of proceedings.
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