Community reeling in shock after granny decapitated
A CLOSE relative of a 76-year-old grandmother who was brutally killed in Chris Hani Park, Galeshewe, has been arrested in connection with her murder.
Community members are reeling in shock following the horrifying incident on January 24 that claimed the life of the elderly woman.
Enraged residents have vowed to take the law into their own hands, threatening to burn down the suspect’s shack if he is released from custody.
“He poses a danger to society. Who will be the next victim? We are not even safe inside our own homes” they said.
Northern Cape police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock confirmed that the SAPS Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit for Murder and Robberies arrested a 35-year-old man in Galeshewe.
“The suspect was arrested on January 28 at 7.15pm in connection with the brutal murder of a 76-year-old granny,” said Kock.
He stated that the deceased was discovered inside her home in Chris Hani Park.
“The body was discovered by a family member on January 24, at about 7am, who later informed the police. The deceased was found on the dining room floor with her head decapitated from her body,” said Kock.
He requested anyone with information to contact Detective Warrant Officer Patrick Dibebe on 060 861 6893.
“Alternatively, you can call the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or utilise the MySAPS app. All information will be treated confidentially,” he added.
A community meeting was held on Wednesday, where residents rallied support to oppose bail for the suspect.
A local community leader, Lawrence Mkhwanazi, called for the investigation to be prioritised.
“We will allow the law to take its course but want to ensure that justice will be served. We are standing together to support the family during this difficult time. Keeping quiet about violent crimes and domestic abuse will only allow wrongdoing to thrive behind closed doors,” said Mkhwanazi.
She added that the suspect’s girlfriend had applied for a protection order against him on Thursday, fearing for her safety and that of her 16-year-old daughter.
“She is traumatised and in need of counselling.”
Neighbours believe the suspect should undergo psychiatric evaluation and rehabilitation.
“It is only in the past three months that his behaviour has drastically changed. The grandmother was a sweet, peaceful person. She did not deserve to die such a cruel death. She lived on this street for over 30 years and raised her three children here. She was meticulous about keeping her yard clean,” they said.
A member of the community policing forum, Anna Bogacwe, questioned the motive behind the gruesome killing.
“I have not been able to sleep properly following the incident. I cannot imagine the pain the grandmother had to endure. I do not blame anyone - no one brings up a child to be a criminal. We are here to offer the family any assistance they might require,” she added.
Community members highlighted that drug abuse was contributing to the rapid rise in violent crime in the area.
“We also have elderly parents and grandparents who are staying alone and we are worried that they may also be harmed,” they said.