A police officer in South Africa has appeared in court charged with the murder of a 16-year-old boy identified as Nathaniel Julius.

Detective Voster Netshiongolo made a brief appearance in the Protea Magistrates Court on Thursday and will join the other two co-accused officers in the dock next week.

He will remain in custody until his next court date in a week’s time.

The 16-year-old Julies died after he was shot multiple times allegedly by the officers, however, authorities defended themselves that he was caught in the crossfire between gangs.

He briefly appeared in the court dressed in a tracksuit, blazer, golf shirt and a navy mask.

He is now facing charges including defeating the ends of justice and being in possession of illegal ammunition.

A group of police officers sat in the first row of the public gallery.

The State is expected to oppose bail.