The long-running murder case involving 22-year-old student Jo-Ann Ntokoto Mabasa has finally been set down for trial after months of delays linked to outstanding forensic evidence.
Mabasa appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 25 June, where the matter was postponed to 10 July 2026 for trial proceedings to begin. According to reports, the case had been repeatedly delayed while investigators awaited key forensic evidence, including DNA and fingerprint analysis.
Mabasa was arrested in September 2025 in connection with the fatal stabbing of her boyfriend, 31-year-old municipal worker Xichavo Ntsanwisi, at Colnbrook Estate in Noordwyk, Midrand.
Police responding to a distress call at about 2am on 22 September 2025 discovered Ntsanwisi lying on the kitchen floor with multiple stab wounds. A blood-stained knife was recovered at the scene and Mabasa was taken into custody. The incident quickly drew widespread public attention and has remained under close scrutiny as the Ntsanwisi family continued to attend court proceedings.
The accused was later granted R10,000 bail by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court. At the time, the court considered her mental well-being as well as the need for her to complete her university examinations.
Speakingafter a previous court appearance, Ntsanwisi’s aunt, Tinyiko Ntsanwisi, expressed the family’s frustration over the delays.
“Obviously, I don’t feel good because it’s postponed again. That trauma is recurring in my family. We’re not coping. The pain is like a wound that is bleeding every day. It’s like there’s no justice. We just want justice to be served.”
With the matter now scheduled for trial on 10 July, the case is expected to move into a new phase as the court begins hearing evidence surrounding the death of Ntsanwisi.
Michael Mashile 