The Skierlik murder case against Johan Nel will be handled according to its own merits, the National Prosecuting Authority said on Monday.

Speaking during a Justice Crime Prevention Security Cluster visit to Skierlik near Swartruggens, Ruben Molefe from the NPA said the community would be pleased with the outcome of the case.

"I must point out that the shooting incident that occurred here has national interest, hence we decided to refer this case to the high court.

"I want to plead with our community members to be patient. People should know that there is no need for us to rush in order to finalise any case."

He said a lack of sufficient evidence might lead a magistrate to strike the case off the roll and compromise the justice system.

Nel (18), is facing four counts of murder, 10 of attempted murder, a charge of possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of ammunition and damage to property.

He will stand trial in the Mmabatho High Court in Mafikeng from 17-21 November.

The regional head of the Department of Justice in North West, Tsietsi Malema, said members of the cluster visited Skierlik to interact with community members to continue explaining how the criminal justice system works.

"People here are still angry because of the shooting incident that occurred. Some are even saying the department is dragging its feet to finalise the case, hence we decided to have public education here to avoid unnecessary protests."

Sapa