Cape Town - The rape and murder accused Mortimer Saunders will make his next appearance in the Western Cape High Court.
Saunders, the alleged rapist and murderer of three-year-old Courtney Pieters, appeared briefly in the Goodwood Magistrates Court on Friday morning.
State prosecutor Adnaan Gelderbloem confirmed the investigation against Saunders has been completed and the matter has been referred to the Western Cape High Court.
Supporters in the gallery rejoiced as Saunders was led down to be held in custody at Pollsmoor Prison until his pre-trial date on November 24.
Video: Courtney Pieters' father Aaron Fourie said he is very relieved to the Western Cape High Court .
Saunders will be represented by legal aid in his trial. Saunders faces two criminal charges - one of rape and the other for murder. His trial date is set for February 2018.
Juanita Pieters was not present in court on Friday as she is hospitalised. It is the first time Pieters missed a court date since the investigation commenced.