A police officer stationed at Rapid Rail Unit in Silverton appeared at the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 21 April.
The 39-year-old is facing a charge of premeditated murder for allegedly killing his pregnant ex-wife.
It is alleged that on 5 April, the accused went to Brits Hospital, where the ex-wife, Ntombizodwa Khumalo (35), worked as a switchboard operator.
When he arrived, it is alleged that he fired several shots at the deceased and went to hand himself over at the Brits Police station in North West.
The late Ntombizodwa's Uncle, Jeff Khumalo, from Letlhabile near Brits, said the family was heartbroken.
Khumalo said Ntombizodwa was a breadwinner who was humble and loved by everyone.
“We are still mourning and do not want the accused granted bail,” he said.
Khumalo said they hope the justice system will not fail them given how brutally their daughter was murdered.
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Ntombizodwa's Aunt, Meme Khumalo, said they were struggling to deal with the loss of their daughter.
She said Ntombizodwa was a beautiful, respectful woman.
“We were still expecting a lot from her as a family. She had already built a name for herself. It is a difficult time for us. Her death left us shattered,” she said.
Meme said Ntombizodwa had obtained a protection order against her ex-husband in 2021.
She said the family was traumatised and needed counselling.
Lenah Medupe, ANC Provincial Women’s League Task Team member, said they were disappointed in the law as it seemed the accused got special treatment because he is a police officer.
Medupe pleaded with the government to strengthen the law concerning Gender-based Violence.
She said women fear for their lives as people stationed to protect them are the perpetrators.
The case was postponed to 4 May for further investigations for the formal bail application.
