MTHATHA-Tragedy has struck Mqhekezweni, the historic village where Nelson Mandela grew up, with a devastating double blow.
Chief Nkosikazi Nogcinile Thenjiwe Mtitara, a 71-year-old relative of Mandela and granddaughter-in-law of AbaThembu regent Jongintaba Mtirara, was shot dead in her royal home on 29 October 2024 at night.
This heartbreaking incident occurred on the same night that five grade 12 schoolgirls from Jongintaba High School were allegedly raped at gunpoint by two men in their private boarding lodges in Konkqeni village.
Furthermore, the unsuspecting students were allegedly raped, assaulted and robbed by a duo of ruthless intruders, who stormed their residence with impunity.
The thieves made off with valuable personal belongings, including cellphones and wallets, leaving the learners shattered and traumatized.
Eastern Cape Department of Education MEC, Fundile Gade has strongly condemned the heinous attack, labeling it, ‘a barbaric act of violence’that has left the entire education sector reeling.
“We are appalled and devastated by this senseless brutality, our hearts go out to the victims and their families. We will provide all necessary support to ensure their well-being and justice is served,” Gade declared.
According to Khulanathi Community leader and Children Rights Activist Patros Majola he urged for increased security measures in school camps with armed personnel and appealed to local men to patrol the area at night, especially during exam time, to safeguard their children.
In addition, noting that Mqhekezweni is a hotspot for school child rape, Majola emphasized that this is a wake-up call for the community to come together and protect its most vulnerable members, demanding justice and protection for the affected learners as the investigation unfolds.
In addition provincial commissioner Lt. General Nomthetheleli Mene said, “We are leaving no stone unturned and working around the clock to apprehend those responsible for the two heinous attacks in the Bhityi Administrative area within the last 24 hours, the safety of our communities remains our top priority,” General Mene added.
Nontando Mbonwa
29 October 2024
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