EASTERN Cape National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union (Nehawu) deputy chairman Lizo Vakala was found murdered in Gqeberha on Tuesday, 25 October.
Police discovered Vakala’s body burnt beyond recognition in a bushy area near Addo Road, Motherwell.
The 64-year-old unionist was reported missing on 22 October.
He was last seen by his family when he left home to repair his white VW Polo in Kwazakhele.
His son, Asemahle, said the police are investigating his father’s death.
“We would like to thank each and everyone for their help in searching for him. We thank the community of Nelson Mandela Bay for their prayers and messages of support since he went missing on Saturday.
“The community must allow the family to grieve. The details of his memorial service and funeral will be shared as soon as they are available,” he said.
Vakala’s colleagues at Nehawu shared their messages of condolences on social media. Nehawu provincial deputy secretary Sweetness Stokwe said: “Ours was a father and daughter relationship. I am not fine and I’m beyond broken.”
ANC provincial spokesman, Gift Ngqondi, said: “The ANC would like to express its shock and disgust at the cold-blooded murder of Vakala.”
Police spokesman Captain Andre Beetge said Vakala’s vehicle was found abandoned in Wells Estate on Monday, 24 October. “A 35-year-old woman has been arrested and will appear in court soon,” he said.
