Murder and rape accused Phethe Sara Simiao. Picture: X / @RSA_JCPS
Phethe Sara Simiao is believed to have been assaulted while awaiting his court appearance.
The Mozambican accused of raping and killing six-year-old Amantle Samane was due in the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Friday 1 November.
As well as rape and murder, Simiao is facing charges of kidnapping and contravention of the Immigration Act.
The accused appeared in court on Friday morning but showed signs of physical distress.
The court heard his claims that he was assaulted by prison wardens but stated that he was unable to identify his alleged attackers, as per SABC News.
He complained of injuries to his stomach, legs and body, and after a short adjournment, the matter was postponed to 3 December.
Simiao is set to be hospitalised before being remanded in custody. It is believed he will still apply for bail when the date for his application is finalised.
Police reported that six-year-old Amantle Samane was playing with friends in their Orlando street when she was allegedly called by Simiao.
ALSO READ: Police arrest Mozambican suspect for rape and murder of Amantle Samane
Her partially naked body was found in an empty shack two streets away from her home on Monday, 21 October.
“The suspect allegedly raped and killed the girl inside the shack. The matter was reported to the police, who immediately started searching for the suspect,” confirmed Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo.
Simiao was arrested on 24 October and made his first appearance in the Protea Magistrate’s Court the following day.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said he was overwhelmed with anger as Simiao faced the court for the first time.
Speaking to media outside the court, Mchunu referred to Samane’s murder as a “major” and “devastating” tragedy.
“It was even hard to look at this fellow in court because when you look at him you are overcome by emotions; you are overcome by a sense of anger,” the minister said.
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