Action Society is strengthening its court oversight in three serious cases involving crimes against women and children. These matters have already been delayed by outstanding investigations, DNA results, court equipment failures and problems involving legal representatives.
“Victims and their families are expected to return to court repeatedly, often without seeing any meaningful progress. Every unnecessary postponement prolongs their trauma and weakens trust in the criminal justice system. Action Society will continue monitoring these cases and demanding that they are brought to a conclusion,” says Juanita du Preez, national spokesperson for Action Society.
JOHANNESBURG HIGH COURT
Three-year-old girl: Raped and violently attacked
Last appearance: 16 September 2026
Next appearance: 15 October 2026 for judgment
A three-year-old girl was allegedly raped and violently attacked in Lion Park near Lanseria on 7 September 2025. She reportedly sustained a serious neck injury and was found on a roof in a critical condition.
A suspect was arrested under Diepsloot CAS 212/09/2025. The prosecution began in the Randburg Magistrates Court before progressing to the Johannesburg High Court.
The matter has been repeatedly postponed for further investigation, DNA results, pre-trial proceedings and trial. Action Society has been monitoring the case as it progresses through the courts. Following further proceedings in September, the matter was postponed to 15 October 2026 for judgment.
KHAYELITSHA REGIONAL COURT
Churchgoers: Nineteen women robbed and sexually assaulted
Last appearance: 15 September 2026
Next appearance: 30 October 2026
Nineteen women were attacked while staying overnight at Blessings Zion Church in Khayelitsha ahead of an Easter morning service on 9 April 2023. Armed men allegedly robbed and assaulted the congregants before forcing women, including elderly and younger victims, to undress and perform sexual acts while being threatened with weapons.
Yamkela Jobo and Okehle Beya face 21 charges arising from the attack. Both pleaded not guilty. The trial began in January 2025, and numerous complainants and witnesses have since testified.
Proceedings have been repeatedly delayed by faulty court equipment and changes or absences involving defence lawyers. When the accused appeared in Khayelitsha Regional Court A on 15 September, the matter could not proceed because Jobo’s legal representative was ill. It was postponed to 30 October 2026.
MITCHELLS PLAIN REGIONAL COURT
Firdous Kleinschmidt: Killed by a stray bullet at school
Last appearance: 15 September 2026
Next appearance: 23 October 2026 for an inspection in loco
Firdous Kleinschmidt, a 13-year-old Grade 7 learner, was killed after being struck by a stray bullet while waiting for school transport on the grounds of her school in Beacon Valley on 30 January 2024.
Lorenzo “Lolly” Brown was arrested and charged in connection with her murder. Action Society became involved in February 2024 and has monitored the matter through repeated bail proceedings, investigation-related postponements and the extended trial.
The case has been complicated by other serious charges against Brown. He has been linked to several cases registered at different police stations, including multiple murder matters. Some of these charges are now being heard together.
Brown appeared in Mitchells Plain Regional Court A on 15 September 2026. The matter was postponed to 23 October 2026, when the court will conduct an inspection in loco at the scene relating to counts 4, 5 and 6.
