The Roodepoort magistrate court postponed a case against Mark Harvey, who allegedly set his girlfriend and her friend on fire early this year, resulting in their deaths later in hospital. The case was postponed to June 19.
According to the court, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is still in the process of looking through all the dockets. The also await the medical reports, incase the matter goes to the High Court.
Intends to plead guilty
In Harvey’s previous court appearance, the court hear that he intends to plead guilty. National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed his intent to plead guilty on two charges of murder.
The court instructed Harvey to consult with his lawyer on his intent.
Just after court proceedings, Marishka Davids’mother, Mandy Davids, expressed how disappointed she was. She stated that she went there with high hopes for a more positive outcome.
Davids said: “The man walked into court with a fresh haircut and he was shaved. He seemed proud with his head held high, he did not seem to care. The man showed no remorse whatsoever. It seems to me like he’s twisting his story continuously. He wants to plead for insanity. This is terribly difficult for me.”
Davids told Sunday World that court was filled to the brim with a lot of support for both the girls.
She said: “Zakkihya’s family was also present. I have no words, I just want this to end. Today I was caught by surprise. We thought that he had already pleaded guilty and formalities will be followed today. Until we were told otherwise. Now it is a case pending to go to the High Court.
Attacked in an apartment
Marishka Davids and her friend Zakkihya Rayman were allegedly attacked by Harvey at an apartment in Florida, west of Johannesburg, on February 11.
Rayman passed away on February 19, from her injuries. In accordance with Muslim custom, she was buried on the same day before dusk.
Davids spent 16 days in ICU at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. She celebrated her 31st birthday on Saturday while still in ICU.
Transferred to Bara hospital burn unit
Davids was transferred to the Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital burn unit in Soweto. She passed away at the hospital on the evening of Tuesday, February 27.
In accordance with the Christian custom, Davids was laid to rest at the weekend that followed.
