Community calls for justice after woman was found dead in Diepkloof
Thobeka Mgqaza was missing for two days before she was found deceased with marks of strangulation and alleged sexual assault.
The community of Diepkloof has been left distraught after Thobeka Mgqaza (25) was found half-naked and dead in Zone 6 on the morning of October 10.
According to Thobeka’s older sister, Mbali Mgqaza, she was missing for two days before she was found deceased with signs of alleged sexual assault and strangulation.
“A message was sent on the community WhatsApp group that there was a body of a young woman that was found in the area. My sister in-law went to the scene, and our worst nightmare was confirmed,” Mbali said.
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She added that Thobeka was found in a canopy of a van with bruises on her head, stomach and neck.
“To say we’re devastated is an understatement because Thobeka was the light of our family. She was an easy and outspoken person. What makes the situation more daunting is the fact that she leaves behind two young children who still need their mother.”
She said a case has been opened with Diepkloof Police Station, but there has not been positive communication, even though there were eyewitnesses who last saw her with a man in the area.
The Mgqaza family is calling for justice and hopes that the police prioritise the case.
“We are thankful for the support we received from the community and members of the CPF. They are with us as we arrange for the burial, and they also assist in following up regarding the suspect.”
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The councillor of Ward 26, Sthembiso Mashinini, also condemned acts of GBV in the area.
“We cannot and must not normalise what happened to Thobeka. Her death is not just another tragedy; it is a loud cry for justice and accountability.
“The rate of gender-based violence and femicide cases in Ward 26 is currently out of control, and as a community, we cannot afford to turn a blind eye any longer.
“I am appealing to anyone with information that can help us find the person responsible for this gruesome act to come forward. We cannot protect this animal,” Mashinini said.
