Flavio Hlabangwane

The Protea Glen Magistrate’s Court heard that the accused attempted to die by suicide twice. Photo: Facebook / Flavio Hlabangwane.

Soweto body parts case: Flavio Hlabangwane declared fit to stand trial

The report is in and the court heard that Flavio Hlabangwane is fit to stand trial after an extended stay at Sterkfontein Psychiatric Hospital.

Flavio Hlabangwane

The Protea Glen Magistrate’s Court heard that the accused attempted to die by suicide twice. Photo: Facebook / Flavio Hlabangwane.

Murder accused Flavio Hlabangwane appeared before the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 11 March, after he underwent mental evaluation at the Sterkfontein Psychiatric Hospital.

HLABANGWANE DEEMED FIT TO STAND TRIAL

Hlabangwane’s arrest in November 2021 sent shockwaves across South Africa after it was alleged that his girlfriend found human remains in his fridge.

The girlfriend reportedly ran from the accused’s rented room and notified the neighbours. Eventually, the police arrived at the scene.

The accused has reportedly attempted to die by suicide twice – once before his arrest and also while being held in a jail cell – hence the court order, which sent him for evaluation.

The report was meant to be completed a month ago but the institution requested more time to complete its report.

“The report will assist the court as it is expected to include either a unanimous finding of the mental condition of the accused… or, in the case where the finding is not unanimous, each specialist (psychiatrist, psychologist) shall give their findings on his mental condition.” said NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane on 18 February.

On Friday, the court heard that the report is completed and Hlabangwane is deemed fit to stand trial.

The case was postponed for further investigation. The accused’s next appearance is expected in the same court on 20 April.