BETHAL – Mr Absalom Masina (36) appeared in the Bethal Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 23 September in connection with the rape and murder of Nomthandazo Methula (13).
Nomthandazo was allegedly raped, murdered and dumped near her home in Malema Section.
She left her home on the morning of Sunday, 8 September after she was sent to a nearby shop by a neighbour.
She never returned.
According to the police, her parents and community members conducted a search for her later that day, without notifying the police.
They failed to locate her.
https://www.citizen.co.za/ridge-times/145412/man-appears-court-rape-murder-emzinoni-girl/
Her body was discovered near her home by a passerby on Monday, 9 September who then informed her parents.
They then reported the matter to the police. An intense police investigation resulted in the arrest of Mr Absalom Masina.
Local women from various churches and organisations embarked on a peaceful march on Tuesday, 17 September to demand the court not to grant him bail.
The marchers submitted their memorandum to the Bethal Magistrate’s Court and called on the court to impose harsh sentences for gender-based violence transgressors.
Ms Brenda Mahlangu, ward councillor, said they are tired of gender-based violence.
“We are calling on the police and the courts to be harsh with the perpetrators.
“We will support Nomthandazo’s family and other victims.”
Police urged locals not to take the law into their own hands.
This comes after residents had burnt down a shack belonging to Ms Masina.
The case was postponed to 1 October.
https://www.citizen.co.za/ridge-times/145314/13-year-old-girl-raped-killed-emzinoni/
