The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency (MTPA) has released a statement condemning the robbery and assault of Dr Esther Mahlangu at her homestead on March 19.
The statement said Mahlangu, a world-renowned artist, had been left with a few injuries and was greatly traumatised by the incident.
“This robbery resulted in Mahlangu’s firearm, household contents and an undisclosed amount of cash being taken,” said the statement.
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“We are extremely shocked and deeply saddened by this shameful act towards our senior citizen,” it said.
“It is unacceptable that we live in a society in which the elderly are being attacked by criminals. We call upon anyone with information on the suspects to contact the local SAPS”, said the CEO of the MTPA , Johannes Nobunga, in the statement.
“Dr Mahlangu is our tourism ambassador and a well-renowned artist who has contributed immensely to the tourism sector. We would like to convey our heartfelt well-wishes to her and wish her a speedy recovery,” said Nobunga.
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He said the MTPA has deployed its tourism officials who provide tourism victim support to visit Mahlangu’s homestead to assess the situation and to provide the necessary support.
“As the investigation is under way, we look forward to the suspect being brought to book by the police. We would like to emphasise that the safety of the elderly should be everyone’s concern,” said the statement.
