A peaceful protest calling for justice, accountability, and safer communities is planned to take place in Midrand on May 17 from 11:30 to 13:30, following the recent murder of 22-year-old Minentle Lilitha Mjali in Noordwyk.

Police confirmed that about three suspects were arrested in connection with the murder of a young woman, identified as Minenhle, whose body was discovered hidden under a bed and wrapped in plastic in a Noordwyk home.

According to reports, the suspects appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on April 28 and were remanded in custody.

Read more: Common assault tops crime stats in Midrand complexes

Community members, activists, and residents are called to gather at the corner of Lever Road and Vodacom Boulevard, next to Tshili’s Car Wash, to use their voices, raise awareness, and stand against violence and lawlessness in Noordwyk and the greater Midrand surroundings.

Charlene Van Onselen, a committee member of the Noordwyk Residents Association (NRA) and community activist who has been campaigning since 2024 and circulating an online petition against lawlessness within Noordwyk and Midrand, said the protest aims to bring visibility to the ongoing impact of gender-based violence (GBV), violence against women, and violent crime within local communities.

“This is about justice for Minenhle, as well as recognising that too many women continue to live under threat, and too many cases fade into silence.

“We are calling on residents to stand together in a peaceful and visible way. Violence, particularly against women, cannot become something communities quietly absorb and move past. No circumstance ever justifies violence, and no victim is ever responsible for what is done to them.”

Van Onselen said part of the intention behind the protest is to ensure that cases like this receive wider national visibility, remain documented, are brought into the public eye, and receive greater attention from municipalities, law enforcement, government, and community leadership structures.

Also read: Police yet to confirm arrests or injuries after New Road crime scene

“Stories and cases like this cannot quietly be silenced and forgotten. Every woman murdered must be documented if we want to create meaningful change within our communities and our society.”

Organisers are encouraging attendees to wear white and purple as a symbol of unity, awareness, and solidarity. Residents are also encouraged to bring placards and messages supporting safer communities and an end to violence against women.

The protest also marks the early stages of a community-led initiative focused on GBV awareness and community safety in Midrand.

Residents who would like to volunteer their time, skills, or support in helping build awareness, resources, and safe community platforms are invited to get involved.

Residents who would like to collaborate or assist with the initiative can contact Charlene Van Onselen on 060 368 3937 or via email at charlenevano@gmail.com.

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