‘When is my mother coming home?’ Three-year-old left behind after alleged GBV tragedy
A Mohlakeng family is searching for answers and justice after 30-year-old Lerato Itumeleng was found dead in her home.
A Mohlakeng family is struggling to come to terms with the tragic death of 30-year-old Lerato Itumeleng, who was found dead at her residence on August 1.
Her brother, Lucky Itumeleng, is seeking justice for his sister while grappling with the traumatic circumstances surrounding her death.
Lucky recalled that the family had been socialising at a friend’s house when an argument broke out between Lerato and her boyfriend. After a friend managed to calm the couple down, they left, saying they would return.
When they failed to come back, Lucky and a friend decided to check on them at their nearby residence.
“When we arrived at their residence, I knocked and observed that there were drops of blood on the floor at the door entrance and the door was slightly open,” he recalled.
After pushing the door open, Lucky said he found blood throughout the residence and discovered his sister lying beneath her boyfriend, who had an injured neck.
Neighbours were called for assistance, and an ambulance was summoned. Lerato was declared dead at the scene.
The tragedy has left the family devastated, with Lucky admitting that he struggles to sleep at night.
However, his greatest concern is Lerato’s three-year-old son, who continues to ask when his mother will come home.
“It’s very painful. I wish I could see her walk through the gate and have this nightmare be over,” he said.
Mohlakeng SAPS acting station commander Lieutenant Colonel Mukosi Rambuda confirmed that a murder case had been opened.
“The investigating officer is still busy with the investigation, and the case is going to trial on November 25,” Rambuda said.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole confirmed that the matter has been adjourned to November 25 for further investigation. The suspect has also been released on bail.
The tragedy highlights the devastating impact of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa, where violence against women continues to leave families shattered.
Beyond the loss of life, these tragedies leave loved ones facing lasting emotional trauma. In Lerato’s case, her young son must now navigate life without his mother, while the family awaits justice.
Lucky’s plea underscores the urgent need to address violence against women, support affected families and hold perpetrators accountable through the justice system.
