Gender-based violence incident claims life of young woman
It is suspected that a confrontation over a stolen cellphone led to the murder.
LIMPOPO – Residents of Ha-Masia Ha-Vhangani were left shocked after the murder of Vhahangwele Mukwevho (25) last Sunday morning. She died of a head injury.
It is suspected that a confrontation over a stolen cellphone led to the murder. She was assaulted and died at the scene. The Spokesperson for the police, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo, confirmed the incident and said that a suspect had been arrested.
Sharon Mukwevho, the deceased’s sister, said the incident left the family in a state of shock and confusion. “Imagine having seen your sister some few days back, healthy and strong, and all of a sudden being called to identify her body at a mortuary,” said a sobbing Mukwevho.
Mukwevho added that the family would love to see the law take its course. “We want to see the suspect severely punished. The accused has to pay for what he has done,” she emphasised.
Bardwell Mufunwaini of the Munna Ndi Nnyi Men’s Forum condemned the killing. “This is a very sad day. The incident occurred despite all the campaigns by government and non-government organisations toward a violence-free society.”
The MEC for Social Development, Nkakareng Rakgoale, expressed concern over the ever-prevalent incidents of gender-based violence in the province. “The continuing killing and abuse of women and children constitutes a gross violation of human rights and the law. We are calling on all communities, and men in particular to join hands with the government in clamping down on gender-based violence that continues to rear its ugly head in the province. The violence meted out against women and children is tearing apart families, as some of the victims are breadwinners who are supposed to take care of their children,” said Rakgoale. She has once again urged women who are in abusive relationships to walk away before it is too late and seek professional help from the array of services offered by government.
