Bafana Mahungela, a 21-year-old college student, was denied bail on 29 December 2023.
Bafana Mahungela bail denied: Here’s what we know
He’s charged with the murder of Kirsten Kluyts, a 34-year-old English teacher from Johannesburg.
Mahungela’s bail denial unfolded at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court in Johannesburg. The court cited the severity of the charges against him: rape, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and premeditated murder. However, the court did not find conclusive evidence of rape.
The state argued against Mahungela’s bail, pointing out inconsistencies in his testimony. They suggested these inconsistencies were because Mahungela caused Kluyts’ fatal injuries.
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Meanwhile, Mahungela’s defence argued that the case against him was weak, and he was coerced into confessing while in police custody.
Kluyts was attacked and killed on 29 October 2023 at George Lea Park during a local running event. She was 14 weeks pregnant at the time.
Kluyts’ body was discovered by fellow runners. She was naked, and her belongings, including running shoes and clothes, were missing. The state alleges she was hit with a blunt object, smothered, and strangled.
Mahungela was arrested at his student residence in Sandton on 26 November 2023, following the police obtaining CCTV footage from near the crime scene.
This case has stirred public concern, particularly around women’s safety.
Mahungela will be due back in court in early 2024.
