Michael Swanton’s family is struggling to come to terms with his death
Image: iStock
Two bodyguards of the mayor of the Madibeng local municipality, Douglas Maimane, are due to appear in court after they allegedly shot dead an SA Air Force sergeant in front of his wife in Mabopane, near Pretoria, last week.
Michael Swanton’s wife Stephanie said his death was unnecessary.
She said a memorial service would be held for her 36-year-old husband at Air Force Base Swartkop on Wednesday.
A Swanton family member, speaking anonymously for fear of being targeted, said the family was struggling to come to terms with his death.
“It’s hard to put into words, the family is struggling to process the reality.”
ALSO READ: VIP protection: Nearly R2.5bn projected to keep Ramaphosa and ministers safe
The family member said Swanton’s children, aged two and four, will never have the opportunity to know their dad.
“He was the youngest of three and leaves behind two sisters.
“One of his sisters flew in from London to attend his memorial. All they do is cry. He was close to his parents, hence, they are finding it difficult to find peace.”
The family was told to stay away from the suspects’ first appearance in court to avoid the possibility of them saying they were being intimidated.
“We were told to stay away, otherwise the accused can say we intimidate them. But why can’t we comment if asked?”
READ NEXT: North West MMC Wesley Kgang arrested for drunk driving, assault and resisting arrest [VIDEOS]
Support Local Journalism
Add The Citizen as a Preferred Source on Google and follow us on Google News to see more of our trusted reporting in Google News and Top Stories.
