By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Murder accused Werner de Jager, who was charged with killing his wife at the NG Suidkus church in Amanzimtoti, died on Monday.
De Jager was on trial for the murder of his wife, Amanzimtoti reverend Liezel de Jager, who was killed in October 2021.
The Department of Correctional Services can confirm the death of detainee Werner de Jager, who was admitted to King Edward Hospital on 5 April 2024 following medical complications,” said Thulani Mdluli, spokesperson for the KZN Department of Correctional Services
“On 15 April 2024, DCS was duly informed that the detainee passed away at hospital.”
Civil society organisation Action Society, which lobbied for the National Cold Case Unit to take over the investigation, said De Werner de Jager’s death has left the family with mixed emotions.
“Our hearts go out to Liezel’s young daughters who now lost both parents, and we pray for strength for her parents, Henk and Salomé, who are their guardians since Liezel’s death, “said Action Society spokesperson Juanita du Preez.
“We will continue to seek justice for Liezel. We owe it to her daughters, family, and friends to see this case through and getting the answers and justice Liezel deserves, “said du Preez.
De Jager was scheduled to appear in court again on 10 May.
He has been in custody since November. From there he appeared in the Magistrate’s Court at Amazimtoti several times while applying for bail.
The issue that Werner has tried to take his own life several times in the past, has been argued repeatedly by the state in court as a reason why he should not be granted bail.
His bail application was turned down on February 22, after which he was in court one more time when his legal team withdrew and he had to apply for legal aid.