The man accused of bludgeoning his Havenside girlfriend to death with a four-pound hammer is set to go on trial for the gruesome murder at Durban High Court from 19 May to 20 June 2025.
The body of the victim, 35-year-old Vyaksha Sookdeo, was found on Christmas Day, mangled in a bin bag in the bathroom of her home, with her legs and hands allegedly broken.
The accused, Sugendran Rodney Naicker from Harley Street in Havenside, appeared at Chatsworth Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 10 October, where the trial date was set.
According to information, it is alleged that Naicker murdered Vyaksha on 21 December 2023. Thereafter, several transactions were made from her account, and some of her belongings were pawned. He also sent a message to her boss from her phone, informing them that she would not be able to attend work.
The brother of the deceased, Vithashk, said: “As a family, we are relieved that the pre-trial process is complete and trial dates have been set for May 2025. We continue to seek justice for our beloved Vyaksha, whose life was senselessly taken from us in December last year.
“This loss has left an unfillable void in our lives, and we are committed to ensuring her memory is honoured through this process. Justice for Vyaksha is not only about accountability; it’s about recognising the profound impact of her loss on our family and community. We hope that the upcoming trial brings us justice for my beloved sister and serves as a reminder that violence has consequences.”
Leisha Ramlall, director of Ramlall Associates and head of SA Outreach Legal Wing, said: “We are happy that the matter is moving forward. We hope that there are no delays at trial and that Vyaksha’s family gets solace and justice.”
