The heartbroken family of a young woman from Kokosi are demanding answers as the man they believe killed her remains at large, despite being spotted regularly in the community.

Dikeledi Emily Mathabela was a woman known for her kindness. “She was a friendly and peaceful lady,” says her aunt, Caroline Fihla.

“If she stepped on your toe by accident, she would apologise.”

However, that peace was shattered on November 13 last year.

According to her uncle, Samuel Fihla, an intruder forced his way into Dikeledi’s home in Ext 99. An eyewitness reportedly watched in horror as the man raped Dikeledi and brutally attacked her with a panga.

Although help arrived and Dikeledi was taken to hospital, she passed away in Leratong Hospital on November 25 due to her injuries. Since this time, her family and friends have been seeking justice.

Dikeledi’s family and friends claim they have been trying to help the police catch her alleged murderer, a sangoma from Mozambique.

According to a friend, Lerato Gumede, they have heard allegations that Dikeledi’s alleged killer has also committed other violent crimes in Kokosi and Mozambique.

The family feels the authorities are not doing enough to protect them or to bring Dikeledi’s killer to justice. If he is not arrested before the time, they want to raise awareness by organising a protest at the Fochville Police Station within the next weeks.