FAMILY and friends of murdered Mpumalanga teenager Zinhle Sekgoapa came to bid her farewell in an emotional funeral service held at Manzini Community Hall in Chochocho today.
The 14-year-old's naked body was found dumped in a pit toilet on Saturday after she had been kidnapped last Wednesday. A 19-year-old family member has been bust for the murder.
The funeral speakers called for an end to violence against women and children.
Mpho Mashego, Zinhle's cousin said what happened was painful. "We never thought she would pass away in this manner. She didn't say goodbye and that hurts us the most," he said.
Mpho said he’ll remember Zinhle for her sound advice. " Zinhle had always given me the best advice. She’d always tell me to choose the right friends and always respect myself. "He called on men to stop violating the rights of women and children.
Thandeka Nkosi said they didn't feel safe as young girls in the area. She said their wish was to see the suspect denied bail. "We don't feel safe. We are scared and don't trust anyone now. We hope Zinhle will get the justice she deserves, " she said
The suspect, who has already made his first court appearance in Kabokweni Magistrates Court on Wednesday, allegedly demanded a ransom of R86 000 from Sekgoapa's family days after she went missing.
Zinhle’s aunt Themsie Sibiya said the family was still hurt. "We give everything to God. He will help us deal with the situation," she said.
Mpumalanga social development MEC Thandi Shongwe urged parents to track their children's moves. " We want to create awareness to the community so they can trace their children. they must know their whereabouts. They must even teach their children to say, ‘Ma I'm off to town or school’. so each and every parent can know at a particular time where the child is, because if you don't check your children, they might be kidnapped," she said.
The suspect who has been charged with kidnapping, robbery and murder is expected to formally apply for bail on Wednesday.
