The man accused of murdering 8-year-old Tazné van Wyk is due to next appear in court on Friday July 31, following the postponement of cases at Goodwood Magistrate’s Court due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Moyhdian Pangarker, 54 was due to have appeared on Friday April 17 for the start of his trial.
Tazné disappeared on Friday February 7 on her way to a tuck shop near her home in Connaught Estate. Two weeks later, investigations led police to Cradock where Pangarker was arrested. He then led them to where Tazné’s body was found in a stormwater drain on the N1 near Worcester.
Pangarker’s pre-trial took place on Friday February 21 at Goodwood Magistrate’s Court, where many protesters gathered calling for justice. Pangarker has a long list of previous offences around the country, including murder, abduction and child neglect; possession of a stolen vehicle, theft, assault and house break-ins. He was paroled each time.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesman Eric Ntabazalila, Pangarker will appear in absentia on Friday July 31, in accordance with the Covid-19 lockdown regulations issued by the Justice Minister Ronald Lamola late last month.
Pangarker has also been charged with rape, in addition to charges of murder and kidnapping.
Mr Ntabazalila said Pangarker could face more charges once the ongoing investigation had been finalised.
Pangarker is being held at Goodwood prison.