New evidence leads to withdrawal of murder charges in Likhona Fose case
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has officially withdrawn murder charges against Mduduzi Trevor Mnisi in connection with the killing of 14-year-old Likhona Fose, following new evidence that casts doubt on Mnisi’s involvement.
Fose’s remains were discovered in an open veld at Durban Deep on June 1, 2025. Mnisi was subsequently arrested and charged with her murder.
However, during his bail application, Mnisi presented an alibi stating he did not know the deceased and was not in the vicinity at the time of her disappearance.
“During his application to be released on bail, Mnisi raised an alibi that he didn’t know the deceased and that his phone records will prove that he was in Daveyton on May 31, 2025, the day Fose went missing,” said NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
Following his bail hearing, the NPA instructed investigators to verify the alibi. The investigation confirmed that Mnisi’s phone had been connected to a cellphone tower in Daveyton on the day in question.
“Furthermore, there were more statements obtained from other witnesses that confirmed that Mnisi could not have been the last person to be seen with the deceased,” Mjonondwane added.
She said the decision to withdraw the charges was guided by the evidence. “The decision to withdraw charges is therefore fair and responsible under these circumstances.”
While Mnisi has been cleared, the investigation into Fose’s death remains active. Authorities are continuing their efforts to uncover what happened on the day she was killed.
“At this stage, we urge community members to work with us in our attempts to find justice for the affected family,” Mjonondwane said.
No new arrests have been made, and the NPA has confirmed that detectives are pursuing other leads.
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