KwaThema – The families of recently slain Thuto Theko, Refiloe Moshime, Anna Eiman, Karabo Mokoena and another victim met with metro representatives, at KwaThema CCC, to discuss the planned march against crime.
The community of KwaThema was left shaken after the gruesome discovery of 52-year-old Eiman’s body, only weeks after Theko and Moshime were murdered in cold blood.
“The narrative of today is about ‘Active Voice’ saying that without community participation, we will not do away with crime,” says Mondli Gungubele, former mayor of Ekurhuleni and member of parliament.”
Gungubele adds that maintaining law and order is not the job of the police alone.
“It is the responsibility of the people, too,” he says.
“If you look at the Boston Marathon bombings, it was the community that helped law enforcement to apprehend the culprit.”
In April 2013, two bombs went off within 12 seconds close to the finish line of the annual Boston Marathon, killing three people and injuring several hundred others.
He believes it is the community’s responsibility to make sure they do not create a hub for criminals.
‘Active Voice’, in collaboration with the families of the victims, have organised a huge march to shine the spot light on law enforcement and the manner in which they handle such cases.
“On July 20 we will meet at KwaThema Hall and proceed to Springs Police Station, where we will hand over a memorandum,” explains Kgotso Pooie, leader of ‘Active Voice’.
He says all major routes will be closed to traffic, to allow the marchers to walk safely.
“We chose this date knowing that learners will be on holiday.
“We would not want to disturb any schooling.
“We are going to bring the city to a standstill.”
Nthabiseng Masondo, a representative of the Theko family, says they have established the #RefiloeThuto Foundation, to offer support to families who are experiencing similar misfortunes.
“At the moment we may not be able to provide financial support; however, we hope to make a difference just by standing beside families in their time of sorrow.”
Connect with us:
Do you have an interesting newsworthy story? Contact the newsroom on 011 812 4800 or send an email to Samantha Keogh (editor) samk@caxton.co.za, Izahn Krige (digital journalist) izahnv@caxton.co.za, Doreen Mokgolo (journalist) doreenm@caxton.co.za or Xoliswa Kali (journalist) xoliswak@caxton.co.za
For the latest breaking news in your community, follow us on Twitter @AfricanReport and like our Facebook page for daily news.
For news straight to your phone and daily weather updates, invite African Reporter on WhatsApp by sending a message with your name and surname to 079 408 9334.
To see what we get up to in the newsroom and in town, follow us on Instagram at african_report