Bock murder case postponed as family left in the dark

Breaking News Update

KNYSNA NEWS - The high-profile murder case involving Mervyn Bock has been postponed to 12 February 2027 for the continuation of a pre-trial conference, following a brief virtual court appearance in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court this morning, Friday 23 October.

Bock stands accused of the murder of his former girlfriend, Velia Strydom, whose decomposed body was found near the Red Bridge outside Knysna on 12 December last year.

According to Strydom’s uncle, Warrick Langisa, her daughters, who travelled to Knysna to attend the pre-trial proceedings, had not been informed that the hearing would take place virtually.

Langisa said the family arrived at the courtroom this morning, only to discover that the proceedings were being conducted remotely. They could barely hear the presiding judge announce the postponement and confirm the next court date.

Langisa told this publication that the family was dismayed by the manner in which the State was handling the case, particularly the communication surrounding court proceedings and the progress of the matter.

“The State is the voice and representative for Velia and us as her family. We are fighting for justice, and the least they can do is keep us updated and aware of the progress,” he said.

He added that even the investigating officer appeared surprised and was unaware of the arrangements. Following the brief virtual pre-trial conference, the family approached the court control prosecutor’s office to express their dissatisfaction with the lack of communication.