Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has reiterated the call for the reconstruction and strengthening of the family structure to end gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).
Chikunga’s call follows the tragic death of five Khoza family members from Bethany, Bergville in KwaZulu-Natal on Saturday night.
According to police, reports indicate that the suspect and his uncle went to visit the neighbours and, on their return, the suspect found his mother sitting in the lounge with others. Information further suggests that the suspect took a knife and stabbed his mother, who managed to run outside of the house.
The 33-year-old then turned his attention to his uncle, who died in the passage as he tried to flee to the neighbours. The suspect went on to stab and kill two girl children, aged two and six years. The suspect also stabbed and killed a woman who was living with disability, as well as another elderly woman who was visiting the house. The suspect's mother and another four-year-old girl survived, with multiple stab wounds.
Reacting to the incident, Chikunga said it is deeply saddening that five family members lost their lives.
READ | Police arrest KZN man accused of killing five family members
“We commend law enforcement agencies for their immediate response and arrest of a 33-year-old man in KZN. We must not only seek justice for the victims but also prioritise the healing and reconciliation of the entire Bergville and Orange Farm communities in the wake of this violence,” Chikunga said.
Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said such atrocities reflect a deep moral decay in society that demands urgent intervention from government.
"We strongly condemn this brutal act of criminality. We face the enormous task of restoring family values in our communities," said Ntuli.
The Premier also commended the swift and effective response of law enforcement officers, including local community crime-fighting structures, and the Bethany community for their role in apprehending the suspect.
"This is proof that by joining hands, we can wage a united and intensified war against crime. We must reclaim our communities from criminal elements," Ntuli said.
The suspect was swiftly apprehended following an intense manhunt. He is expected to appear in the Bergville Magistrates Court on Tuesday, facing five counts of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
Orange Farm killings
Chikunga’s call also comes after a recent shooting incident that took place in Orange Farm on Sunday.
Police responded to the shooting in Mokokotlong informal settlement in Orange Farm, Gauteng.
“It is reported that one of the victims went to the local tavern to buy alcohol, but he found that it was already closed. He had an altercation with the tavern owner and went back home. It is alleged that the tavern owner followed him home, where family members were still celebrating after lobola negotiations.
“The tavern owner entered the house and opened fire at the family members. He shot and killed seven people, including a three-year-old boy (five family members, a neighbour and a friend).
"Four people survived the shooting, two of them, a 31-year-old and a one-year-old boy, were taken to hospital with injuries, while a 24-year-old woman and a four-year-old did not have injuries,” the police said.
According to the police, the suspect then drove back home in Evaton, where he allegedly shot himself. He was rushed to hospital, but he died on arrival.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit has registered seven counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and an inquest.
Foundation of communities
Chikunga highlighted the critical role played by families in the foundation of communities.
“Strong families form the core of stable societies. When these structures falter, the ripple effect extends to the community.”
The Minister also called on faith-based organisations, including community leaders and civil society, to support efforts to strengthen family bonds, particularly in addressing domestic violence, mental health, and conflict resolution. - SAnews.gov.za
