Call for security cameras following teen’s brutal murder

In the wake of the harrowing murder of 17-year-old Koketso Ramahlo a call has been made for the installation of security cameras in the Hammanskraal area.

Ward 73 councillor Michael Ndlovu believes the cameras will be a crime deterrent and enhance safety.

This comes after the 17-year-old was reported missing from her home in Kekana Gardens in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria on January 1.

Ramahlo’s lifeless body was found bearing visible burn marks near her residence on January 3.

The community has been left in shock, grappling with the senseless loss of a young life.

In response to this tragic event, Ndlovu emphasised the urgent need for enhanced surveillance measures in Hammanskraal.

“The brutal murder of Ramahlo has sparked the critical need for improved security infrastructure in our community.

“Installing security cameras at strategic locations will not only act as a deterrent to potential criminals but also assist law enforcement in their investigations.”

Ndlovu has advocated for increased police patrols and community engagement initiatives to address the root causes of crime.

“We were supposed to have the cameras that the office of the premier promised us but we only managed to identify areas in which they have to be installed.

“If we have cameras, perpetrators will not do as they please here so the office of the premier must speed up the process of installing those cameras.”

Following the discovery of Ramahlo’s body, the police initiated an investigation and on January 6, three suspects were arrested in connection with her murder.

While the arrest of the suspects is a positive development, Ndlovu emphasised that the community must remain vigilant.

He urged residents to collaborate with local authorities and participate in community safety programmes.

“Community forums are important in this matter because it is alleged that a car came to pick up the girl at night and forum members could have come and checked what the car was doing at night.

“Our collective efforts are vital in creating a safer environment for all,” said Ndlovu.

The family of the deceased has called for justice for their daughter last seen in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

Aunt, Linda Ramahlo claimed the person who killed Koketso was not a stranger, as her body was dumped outside her home.

“We searched for her everywhere and we couldn’t find her and we decided to post her as a missing person through social media.

“Her loss is very hurtful to us and we still can’t believe that we lost her, but we hope that justice will be served in the end.”

The SAPS has made progress in its investigation of the brutal murder.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said three suspects, aged 20-22, were arrested on January 5 and were expected to appear in court today (January 7).

“Authorities were alerted to the body lying on the street near her home, sparking a police investigation into the shocking incident.

Nevhuhulwi said the breakthrough in the case came following intensive investigative work, which led to the arrest of the suspects.

She said the suspects were in police custody and would appear in court soon on a charge of murder.

“We are working to ensure that all those responsible for this horrific crime are brought to justice,” said Nevhuhulwi.

Police are also calling on the public to come forward with any additional information that could aid the investigation.

Those with knowledge of the incident are encouraged to contact the nearest police station or call the Crime Stop Line at 08600 10111.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the MySaps App, which is available for download on smartphones.

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