The 17-year-old suspect accused of murdering six family members has been remanded in police custody, with his case postponed to May 28.

The police clarified to the media that the suspect is not an 18-year-old man, as previously reported, but rather a minor who will turn 18 on April 18.

Due to his age, the Usakos Magistrates Court is treating him as a minor, which prohibits the media from filming him in court until he reaches 18. Furthermore, community members were not allowed to attend the proceedings.

The suspect's name and image cannot be published.

The state opposed bail during his court appearance to facilitate further investigation, indicating that a social worker needs to screen the suspect or conduct a psychological evaluation.

The 17-year-old has been transferred to the Narraville Police Station in Walvis Bay, where juveniles are typically detained.

This move aims to protect him from potentially angry community members who might take matters into their own hands.

Despite not being permitted inside the courtroom, community members gathered outside to condemn the horrific murders.

They marched in the streets and stood outside the magistrate's court, singing songs commonly heard at funerals.

Some family members expressed their grief, while church leaders and the community turned to prayer, voicing their shock and concern over the incident.

The minor suspect is accused of killing his 95-year-old grandmother and his 17-year-old twin sister, as well as four nieces aged 3 and 6.

He allegedly used an axe and a knobkierie to strike and dismember the victims, ultimately attempting to destroy evidence by burning their bodies.