Stabbed to death for ‘being lesbian’

The family of a Gcilima woman, Pinky Shongwe (32) who was fatally stabbed in Umlazi last Saturday, claims she was killed after she turned down a man who had professed love to her.

Pinky, who identified as lesbian, had attended her sister’s birthday celebrations. Another sister, Khethiwe Shongwe (38) told the Herald that she was killed at a nearby liquor outlet where she had gone to buy drinks.

According to the family, they were told that their sister had been stabbed after she turned down a man who had ‘proposed love to her’. It is alleged the man became violent when Pinky told him she was not interested in him as she was dating women.

“The man took out a knife and stabbed her, she tried to run but fell and died there,” explained Khethiwe.

She described Pinky as a family person who was always full of smiles.

Pinky also played soccer and represented Ugu District. “She started playing soccer at a very young age and nothing could separate her from the sport,” added Khethiwe.

According to Durban Gay and Lesbian Community and Health Centre’s Nonhlanhla Mkhize, they are heartbroken and wondering why Pinky was killed as her family and community had already accepted her as lesbian.

“The incident is disturbing. What wrong had she done and to whom? Her being a lesbian was not abusing anyone. We find ourselves in a small space. It so unfortunate that at this time that some people may kill you for being a lesbian. This violence and hatred towards us make us feel uncomfortable,” said Mkhize.

The family said they had not finalised funeral arrangements as of yesterday (Wednesday), but Pinky’s body was being moved from a state mortuary to a private mortuary.

Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala confirmed the incident.

“A murder case has been opened for investigation. No arrest has been mad as yet,” said Gwala.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram