Picton-Turbervill case postponed

Jan 29 2008 Western Mail

THE three men accused of the murder of a Welsh businessman will appear in court again next month, after the case against them was postponed for further investigation.

THE three men accused of the murder of a Welsh businessman will appear in court again next month, after the case against them was postponed for further investigation.

Petro Morkel, 27, and Thokozane Nhlapo, 23, were arrested on January 11 in connection with the killing of Fred Picton-Turbervill, 45, from Bridgend, in front of his wife and four youngest children in their South African home.

Rafel Thembe, 18, was arrested soon after.

They will appear at Pretoria Regional Court next month.

Although only two men were inside Picton-Tubervill’s Waterkloof Ridge home, police suspect Thembe might be part of the gang. They will also investigate if the accused are legally in the country.

The men are facing charges of murder, housebreaking with intent to rob and robbery with aggravating circumstances. Another charge of illegally possessing ammunition may also be added.

An identity parade was held last week and another could be staged to accommodate more witnesses. The three are also being linked to other crimes. They will remain in custody until their next court appearance on February 15.