The trial of the suspects in the murder of 22-year-old Asiphe Cetywayo started last week in the Paarl Regional Court, but has since been postponed.
The education student from Mbekweni was found murdered on 4 March 2024, after she was last seen with Luzuko Manzi. Her body was discovered by cattle herders in an open field next to the Bo Dal Road. Manzi and his cousin Mlungisi Manzi were shortly afterwards arrested and taken into custody.
The case first appeared in the Paarl Magistrates’ Court before it was transferred to the regional court.
Since Cetywayo’s brutal murder Action Society, a civil rights organisation, has been tasked by her family to speak on their behalf.
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In a statement Juanita du Preez, national spokesperson for Action Society, revealed that Cetywayo’s body was burnt with acid. The accused are also both charged with murder, rape and kidnapping. While Mlungisi was granted bail, Luzuko remains in custody.
“The prosecution has experienced repeated postponements, including delays over outstanding DNA results and further particulars. By 8 December 2025, the State had confirmed that the investigation was finalised and that it intended calling 12 witnesses, including a forensic pathologist and a DNA analyst.”
Du Preez added: “Asiphe’s family deserves a trial that proceeds efficiently and a full accounting of what happened to her. The November sitting must bring this case closer to a conclusion.”
The trial will continue on 12 November.
