Midrand police investigate murder of female security officer at training centre
A 31-year-old suspect has been arrested following the alleged murder of a 43-year-old female security officer at the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre in Midrand.
Investigations are underway after a 43-year-old female security officer was found dead at the Elijah Barayi Memorial Training Centre (EBMTC) in Midrand on August 1.
Johannesburg District Corporate Communication spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mpho Tshetlhane confirmed that police have arrested a 31-year-old man in connection with the incident.
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The suspect is expected to appear in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court soon on a charge of murder. “The motive behind the incident is not yet known. Police investigations are continuing,” said Tshetlhane.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), which is linked to the training centre, identified the deceased as Nevermind Grace Mngomezulu and described the killing as ‘horrendous’.
The union released a statement on August 3 stating that Mngomezulu and the suspect were both employed by a security company contracted to provide security services at the EBMTC.
According to the NUM, Mngomezulu’s body was discovered in a female change room at the centre, covered in blood, and appeared to have suffered stab wounds.
The union said security footage allegedly showed the suspect as the last person seen following Mngomezulu into the change rooms. He allegedly fled the scene before he was later arrested by police.
The NUM and the EBMTC Board of Trustees condemned the killing, describing it as a ‘barbaric criminal act’ and expressing concern that the alleged perpetrator was a colleague of the deceased.
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“We are extremely saddened by this horrific act of criminality. It seems all was premeditated,” said Lefty Mashego, NUM national education structure secretary.
Mashego said the EBMTC board met shortly after being informed of the incident to discuss the way forward, while the matter was reported to police.
The union also extended its condolences to Mngomezulu’s family and loved ones, stating that the family had already visited the training centre and that discussions around funeral arrangements were continuing.
NUM assured its members and students that the college remains safe, adding that additional security measures are being implemented following the incident.
The investigation continues.
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