South African Jews pay respect to 3 murdered Israeli boys

The memorial service was hosted by the South African Zionist Federation and saw the Jewish community coming together in solidarity with Israel.

The boys, Naftali Frenkel, Gilad Shaar and Eyal Yifrach were abducted on their way from shul when they were abducted and killed. Their bodies were found 18 days later in Hebron.

During the ceremony, all speakers called on the Israeli government to hand down a harsh punishment to the suspects.

Palestinian militant Islamic group, Hamas has been accused of being responsible for the crime.

Teenagers attending the service told the North Eastern Tribune that they were shocked by the incident.

Zahava Bogatie said she was saddened by the crime. She said, “The last time I went to Israel I stayed very close to where the boys were abducted. I am shocked at the thought that this could have been me.” Kyle Chatten echoed the same sentiment. He said he found it ridiculous that people could be so evil. “It is not right that they were abducted as they were coming from prayers and hitchhiking to get back home. I wish that their families will heal,” he said.

Candles were lit inside and outside the shul in memory of the slain teenagers.