These were the words of Frans Makousa after his nephew, Lesley Makousa’s lifeless body was dumped in desolate bushes in Promosa.

Sixteen-year–old Lesley was a Gr. 10 learner at Promosa Secondary School. A passer-by made the discovery on Saturday morning. He had been robbed of his cell phone and strangled to death, presumably with a shoelace that was found near the body.

Pamela Makousa, the mother of Lesley, described him as a loving person, well-mannered and loved by the community of Promosa. She was so distraught that she could not continue the interview and let his uncle take over. Frans described Lesley as a person who was beautiful, both inside and out.

“He was a quiet, obedient, humble person who was an active member of the Nazarene Church. He was a people’s darling and could mingle easily with anyone. What I also loved about him was that, if something bad had happened, he would try and talk to you and come up with solutions to rectify it,” he says.

Frans says the family has been robbed of a talented young man whose dream was to become a fashion designer. He saw himself dressing well-known people for prestigious events one day. “I was amazed at the dress he designed for my little daughter,” he said. Not only did Lesley have an eye for fashion but he was a well-rounded person who was involved in youth activities in the community and was also part of the non-profit organisation of men against rape, Banna ba Kae.

“He was a well-respected, very trusted young man in the community,” he said. “We will miss him a lot.” Lesley will be buried in Promosa this Saturday.

The NW SAPS provincial spokesperson, Col. Sabata Mokgwabone says the police in Ikageng are investigating a case of murder. He confirmed that strangulation is suspected but said the motive for the killing is unknown at this stage. “No arrest has been made and investigations continue,” he reported.