CAPE TOWN - Browns Farm in Philippi has once again been rocked by a murder of a teenage girl after the body of a 16-year-old was found at a dumping site at the weekend.
A picture of the young girl’s body on a pile of rubbish surfaced on social media on Sunday with some people calling for members of the public to help identify her or those who might recognise her to inform her loved ones.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said Nyanga police were investigating a murder case after police members attended a crime scene in Mzinggizawe Street, Browns Farm, on Sunday at around 8am.
“Upon arrival they found the body of a 16-year-old girl. The victim was declared dead on the scene by the medical personnel. The motive for the attack is unknown. The unknown suspect/s fled the scene and are yet to be arrested,” said Swartbooi.
He said an autopsy will be conducted to determine the cause of death.
Ilitha Labantu spokesperson Siyabulela Monakali said they were deeply saddened to hear that the body of another young woman had been found.
“Since the start of this year we have witnessed an increase in the number of femicide cases in the Western Cape. We appeal to our communities to take a stand against these atrocious acts and report all incidents of violence against women and children. There is nothing normal about these brutal acts of violence and we strongly believe that if we worked collectively as civil society, government, private sector and the community at large we can help to eradicate this scourge,” said Monakali.
Acting MEC of Community Safety Anroux Marais said one death of this nature was one too many.
“The perpetrators must face the full might of the law while the loved ones of the deceased receive the necessary support during this difficult time. To ensure a thorough investigation and successful conviction, I urge anyone with information which could assist the South African Police Service (SAPS) in their investigation to immediately come forward and report such.
I hereby also extend my sincere condolences to the friends, family and loved ones of the deceased”.
Anyone with information on the incident can anonymously contact Crime Stop at 0860010111 or SMS Crime Line at 32211.
Cape Times