The murder case of Rynfield businessman Nardus Blokland (55) was moved from the Roossenekal Periodical Court, Limpopo, to the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court.
Speaking on behalf of the Blokland family, Chad Thomas, an investigator from IRS Forensic Investigations, appointed on a watching brief in the criminal investigation and prosecution of the matter, said the case was again presented before the court on March 27.
“An application was made for the case to be moved to Groblersdal and was unopposed,” said Thomas.
“The case will next be heard on June 7. It is hoped that by this time, the police investigation is complete, and a trial date can be set.”
According to Thomas, because some of the forensic reports were outstanding, a trial date could not be set.
The accused Sean Swart has not yet pleaded and remains on bail of R15 000.
Blokland died on November 4 at the Highside Tavern in Tonteldoos, Mpumalanga, owned by the suspect, also from Benoni.
According to eyewitnesses, Blokland and the suspect’s brother-in-law were showing each other martial arts moves at a party when the brother-in-law, who had recently undergone a hip replacement, fell.
Swart, who witnessed the exchange from a distance, allegedly hit Blokland before storming back into the pub and emerging with a wooden bar stool to continue with the assault.
Blokland is believed to have died of head and chest injuries.
“This horrific event has left the family devastated, but through emotional support from friends, the family and the community are coping,” said Thomas.
“Eric Bryer, the attorney for the family, and I will continue following the case through the watching brief to ensure justice prevails.”
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