Man who allegedly killed ex-girlfriend’s daughter remains in police custody

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The 38 years old man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend’s daughter is set to remain in police custody for the next three months for trial.

Joseph Phage was remanded in police custody after his bail application during court appearance earlier this week.

NPA Spokesperson in North West Henry Mamothame said that Phage was arrested on Monday 08 November 2021, following an incident wherein the body of 10-year-old Kamogelo Sithole was found inside his shack in Sonderwater informal settlement at Ikageng near Potchefstroom.

Sithole had been reported missing before being discovered at Phage’s residence.

“Phage is alleged to have kidnapped his ex-girlfriend’s 10-year-old girl at a primary school in Ikageng and took her to an unknown location. Following the child’s disappearance, the mother reported a case of kidnapping at a local police station. He was arrested on Sunday, 07 November 2021 at Zakhele informal settlement, and upon his arrest, he failed to disclose the whereabouts of the child” said Mamothame.

Sithole’s lifeless body was under the bed in Phage’s shack.

Making his appearance at the High Court division sitting in North West, Klerksdorp Division, his trial date was set for September 12-16.

He is facing four charges that include murder, attempted murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and kidnapping.