ON Thursday, 4 January, the victims of the mass shooting in Soshanguve were remembered.
Moahi Funeral Services (MFS) organised a memorial service with candles and flowers at Block P, Soshanguve Jukulyn, Tshwane.
Phomolang Malakapatlo (28), Constable Mpho Kgobotlo (29) and Vuyolwethu Ziwela (14) were honoured at the crime scene.
The pouring rain did not deter family, relatives and friends from gathering for the memorial service. There were more than 300 people in attendance and the streets were packed with cars.
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During the memorial service, Phomolang's close friend, Katlego Mashiane, said the incident was not the will of God.
"Whoever did this knew what he was doing because it was deliberate. It was so unfortunate that a very beautiful and kind person was caught in the crossfire who did not deserve to be killed so brutally," she said.
She said Phomolang had big plans for the new year.
"This was supposed to be her year of prosperity. We had planned to move together to a more comfortable and safer neighbourhood. I was supposed to accompany her to buy her first car," she said.
She said she'd cherish the memories they shared and follow through on the plans they had.
Vuyolwethu's friend, Lucky Baloyi (15), said they were looking forward to their first year at high school in 2024.
"In primary school, I shared the same table with her. I ate lunch with her during breaks and confided my secrets to her," he said.
He said she was a very peaceful person who used to laugh a lot.
Resident Ayabongwa Mthembu said the three deceased were unique in their own ways.
"They all behaved differently. They were all very respectful, caring and loving; you would think they were not from Jukulyn. They are all at peace now," he said.
He said what bothered him most was that the accused showed no remorse when they appeared in court.
The family of slain Constable Kgobotlo was unable to attend the candlelight memorial ceremony. At that time, another memorial service was already taking place at the police station at OR Tambo Airport, where the constable was stationed.
The three will be buried separately over the weekend.
