Community unites at candlelight ceremony following tragic killing in Leachville
The vigil in Leachville emphasised both remembrance and action, with SAPS and CPF encouraging residents to work together to prevent future tragedies.
The Leachville community came together for a candlelight ceremony on April 2 in memory of Junior Tshepang Setlhare.
As previously reported by the Brakpan Herald, the 22-year-old’s body was discovered in an open trench in a veld at the corner of Boven and Blyde streets in Leachville Ext 2 on March 26.
Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer Constable Audrey Buthelezi attended the ceremony, joined by Brakpan CPF Sector Four chairperson Jessy Naicker and CPF patrollers from Sectors One and Four.
According to Buthelezi, the ceremony was arranged by Setlhare’s family and community members. The crowd, carrying placards, some reading “Justice for Tshepi” and others “May your soul rest in peace”, walked from his home to the location where his body was discovered.
Buthelezi addressed the crowd and emphasised that the SAPS is always available to serve and protect communities, but also requires community members to stand up united and join in the fight against crime.
She further encouraged the youth to join hands and be the ones protecting their parents and their homes against lawlessness.
Buthelezi told the gathered community members to work with the SAPS and CPF by blowing the whistle on criminals within the community.
“Community members of Leachville should pledge and make sure this gruesome killing is the last they will ever experience,” she said.
Naicker stated that the CPF and SAPS are always available to work with the community, and community members should stop harbouring criminals and protecting them.
He further encouraged that anyone who sees or hears anything should immediately report it to authorities. Candles were lit, and songs of grief and comfort were sung for family and friends.
“The family appreciated the initiative by community members and thanked the SAPS and CPF for their presence and support,” added Buthelezi.
Police investigations into Setlhare’s murder are underway.
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