After more than two years of frustrating delays, the murder trial of Nadia Lotz is finally gaining momentum in the Strand Regional Court. Her case is one of several that Action Society is closely monitoring as part of our ongoing fight against court backlogs and systemic failures in the justice system.
Every postponement deepens the trauma for families and undermines faith in the rule of law. That’s why Action Society remains present—not only in courtrooms, but also alongside the families, offering support and demanding accountability. We are committed to ensuring that justice is not delayed indefinitely and that the voices of victims are never forgotten.
This week saw important developments in several key cases. Here’s our full courtwrap.
STRAND REGIONAL COURT
Nadia Lotz – fell from moving car after her throat was slit
Last Appearance: 10 July 2025
Next Appearance: 24 July 2025
Nadia, a 32‑year‑old mother of three, was murdered in March 2023 by her long‑term partner, Charles Apollis, who allegedly slit her throat and stabbed her repeatedly inside a moving vehicle. After more than two years of delay tactics—including changing legal representation—he finally pleaded not guilty.
Witness testimony starkly recounted the events: a peaceful outing turned violent, a chilling attack in the car, Nadia’s desperate escape and fall, and her tragic death in the arms of a stranger who tried to save her. Defence claims of self‑defence were sharply refuted by witnesses. This trial’s resumption marks a critical step toward accountability. Action Society will continue to attend proceedings and support Nadia’s grieving family.
MITCHELLS PLAIN MAGISTRATES’ COURT
Maggie Carolus – assaulted by neighbour
Last Appearance: 1 July 2025
Next Appearance: 15 July 2025
Maggie, a resident of Strandfontein, alleges she was assaulted by her neighbour on 20 October 2024. The attack reportedly followed months of intimidation and culminated in a physical assault that caused her to fall to the pavement. The case was stalled due to an incomplete record of proceedings, forcing a new magistrate to reissue the court date. Action Society will continue to monitor the trial’s progress.
Fern* Rape taped and shared on social media
Last Appearance: 2 July 2025
Next Appearance: 15 July 2025
This harrowing case involves a teenage girl gang‑raped by a group of teenagers in October 2024, with the assault reportedly recorded. One accused failed to appear, prompting an arrest warrant. The trial resumes on 15 July, as Action Society continues to demand swift justice for the survivor.
Firdous Kleinsmidt – shot at school
Last Appearance: 4 July 2025
Next Appearance: 15 July 2025
Firdous Kleinsmidt, a young girl, was murdered in Tafelsig in October 2023. She was found with multiple stab wounds after allegedly being lured by a suspect known to her family. The case drew public outrage due to the brutal nature of the attack and concerns about the safety of children in gang‑ridden communities. Action Society is monitoring the case closely as the trial resumes.
KHAYELITSHA REGIONAL COURT
Thimna Kuze – raped and killed at sleepover
Last Appearance: 27 June 2025
Next Appearance: 28 July 2025
Thirteen‑year‑old Thimna disappeared after a sleepover in March 2023 and was found raped and murdered the next day in a local shack. The trial has been hindered by defence requests for additional evidence and language interpretation in Xhosa. The ongoing delays continue to traumatize the family.
ATHLONE / WYNBERG COURTS
Melany Stoffels – murdered with a hammer while pregnant
Last Appearance: 11 July 2025
Next Appearance: 29 July 2025
Melany, pregnant at the time, was brutally beaten to death with a hammer in Heideveld on 7 August 2024. The incident was orchestrated as an apparent hit ordered by her ex‑girlfriend. A male accomplice surrendered to police on 11 August, and the ex‑girlfriend was later arrested. Following its transfer to Wynberg Regional Court, the case is now scheduled for 29 July. Action Society will ensure proceedings are closely followed until justice is served.
PRETORIA HIGH COURT
Bathabile Maria Mnguni – murdered in front of 10-year-old daughter
Last Appearance: 24 January 2025
Status: Sentenced
Maria Mnguni’s husband slit her throat and stabbed her to death in front of their 10-year-old daughter on 1 January 2024. Afterwards, he cut and mutilated her face and locked the body in a bedroom with the young girl. He threatened to kill the child if she dared call for help or made any noise. The accused pleaded guilty in December 2024 and was sentenced to life imprisonment on 24 January 2025.
