Teenager to stand trial for the murder of Deveney Nel

A 17-year-old boy, accused of the brutal murder of Deveney Nel, will go on trial at the Western Cape High Court next month.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila, confirmed the case was transferred from the Caledon Magistrate’s Court to the high court this week.

The teenager will make his first high court appearance on September 12. 

The accused, whose identity is withheld due to his age, in the lead-up to these court proceedings underwent a 30-day psychiatric evaluation at Valkenberg Hospital. The assessment confirmed that he is fit to stand trial.

Deveney’s lifeless body was found on January 24, 2024, in the storeroom of Hoërskool Overberg. She had been stabbed to death allegedly by the fellow pupil. 

Her mother had reported her missing after failing to return home to Grabouw following the school’s sports day.

Authorities allege that the suspect, who was acquainted with Deveney, stabbed her to death during the school event.

It was reported that Deveney’s hair ribbon and cellphone were found on the back of a bakkie of a man who works close to the school.

It is believed both pieces of evidence were thrown onto the bakkie where it was later found by the man and handed over to the police.

chevon.booysen@inl.co.za