Naadine Vanker: Suspect abandons bail in ‘missing’ Lenasia woman case

Lucky Mshubi, a suspect who was arrested for allegedly killing Naadine Vanker, a Lenasia woman who went missing for a week has abandoned his bail application. The National Prosecuting Authority said.

Vanker’s body was found in a shallow grave at Phumlamqashi in Lenasia South on Tuesday 27 April.

SUSPECT IN NAADINE VANKER CASE ABANDONS BAIL

According to News24, Gauteng NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane said that Mshubi appeared in the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 30 April. He appeared on charges of murder, housebreaking with intent to rob, robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice.

“Mshubi will remain in custody after he indicated to the court that he does not wish to apply for bail and opted to conduct his own defence.”

LENASIA WOMAN KIDNAPPED ON 22 APRIL

South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo said in a statement on Wednesday that the investigation into the disappearance of Vanker – who was reportedly abducted by two men who drove off in her vehicle early on the morning of Thursday 22 April – had led them to a shack in the area where an arrest was made. 

She had been dressed in pyjamas and a pink gown when she was accosted, and her vehicle was later found abandoned near Ennerdale, about 15km from her home.

“The matter was reported to police and a detectives team was established, activating a search party in prioritising the case and search for the victim. On the evening of Tuesday 27 April 2021 investigation led the team to a shack in Phumlamqashi, Lenasia South, where one of the suspects was found. The suspect then pointed to the police a shallow grave inside the yard where the victim was buried.”

Mshubi’s next court appearance is in July 2021.