Finally the family of the two children who were reportedly abducted and later found murdered earlier this year, will find closure when the two children are laid rest on Saturday, 20 October 2018 after a lengthy DNA process. Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Pat Ngomane confirmed yesterday, 11 October 2018 during the handing over to a house to the deceased family.
On 28 January 2018, 13-year-old Gabisile a child with albinism and a one-year-old Nkosikhona Ngwenya were abducted by armed men from their home while they were sleeping at Hlalanikahle in Vosman. Their bodies were later found at Cullinan and along the N4 Highway. It is believed that the children were targets of rituals muti killings because Gabisile was living with albinism.
The gesture to refurbish the family house became possible with donations from the MEC and other stakeholders as well as Emalahleni Local Municipality. It was intended at preventing any future break-ins to the family’s home. The adjustments include installation of security cameras around the house, brick wall and security enhancements to the house such security gates on the house entrance.
The family was also presented with household items that include bedding, TV set, cup boards and curtains as well as blankets. MEC Ngomane further announced that a barbed wire will soon be installed and the yard will also be paved.
Gabisile’s mother, Ms. Anna Shabane expressed gratitude to the gesture saying that her family appreciates all the support the police, the community, the mayor and the MEC have shown to her family during the difficult time. She added that with all efforts so far, she does not think the incident will happen again. “Since the tragedy, I have been living in fear especially because I have a little child who is living with albinism, however my fears have been alleviated today because we now have a house that is secure,” she added.
MEC Ngomane was accompanied by Emalahleni Executive Mayor, Cllr Linah Malatjie and SAPS Provincial Commissioner Lt-Gen Mondli Zuma and other stakeholders. MEC Ngomane blasted the traditional healers who regard people with albinism as “Muthi” saying that they have no place in the society but should rot in jail. MEC Ngomane also commended the police for working tirelessly in investigating the matter which led to the arrest of the suspects who are currently on trial. The MEC also apologized to the family for what happened.
He said: “I assure you that an incident like this will not happen again.” He urged the community members to protect each other in particular children. Meanwhile, General Zuma apologized for the late DNA test results, saying that they wanted to ensure that they provide correct results to the family.
Meanwhile, four suspects were arrested in February and were charged with kidnaping and murder. They have been kept in custody since their arrests after bail was denied.
Ends…
Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison
Enquiries: Joseph Mabuza
Tel: 013 766 1575
Mobile: 082 678 1450
E-mail: emabuza@mpg.gov.za