Community members of Tumahole and Schonkenville, supported by Ngwathe Ward 13 Councillor, Mbuyiselo Tyumbu, gathered at the Parys Magistrate’s Court earlier this week, where testimonies of schoolchildren and the mother of Tshireletso Nnete were heard in the trial of a 43-year-old man accused of the murder of young Tshireletso on March 5, 2025. Tshireletso was a Grade 10 learner from Yakhisiswe Secondary School when he was allegedly assaulted. He later succumbed to his injuries.

Community members told the Gazette that Tshireletso was playing soccer with friends after school when the accused walked past them. The man was reportedly called over by his own son, who claimed the other children were bullying him. It is alleged that the father then attacked Tshireletso and another boy in front of the group. The father later handed himself over to the police.

Mina Maine, whose son was also caught up in the attack, earlier told the Gazette her child was the stronger one and was fortunate to escape. She said he is unable to sleep and is severely traumatised after the incident.

Community members who attended court said they do not feel safe and want justice to be served. This was echoed by members of the ANC Women’s League.

“It is painful. This type of violence is everywhere,” members said, speaking out strongly against violence towards women and children.

People living in the area where the incident occurred said they were shocked. “Our children expect adults to protect them, not hurt them.”

Tyumbu said the call for the community to unite and attend the court proceedings this week in support of the Tshireletso family, was also to raise a voice in the ongoing fight against drug-related activities affecting communities, gender-based violence, and femicide.

“This court appearance is not only about one case, but about the future of our communities, the safety of our children, and the collective stand against substance abuse, crime, and the destruction of families within Ngwathe,” Tyumbu said.

A memorandum and petition, signed by 2 387 community members, parents, teachers, business owners, and community leaders, were handed to the manager of the Parys Magistrate’s Court on Monday, raising specific concern ‘with the number of drug dealers who are acquitted or not found guilty despite overwhelming evidence of their involvement in the distribution of illegal substances.’

“This situation has created a crisis in our community, undermining public trust in the justice system and perpetuating the devastating impact of drugs on our youth and families,” was stated in the memorandum.

The community is calling on the court to act decisively, for the sake of children, families, and their future.