Durban Deep protests erupt after mutilated body of 14-year-old girl found

Frustrated and angry residents of Durban Deep are demanding justice and urgent government intervention after the mutilated body of 14-year-old Likhona Fose was found.

On June 4, a group of women dressed in black marched through the streets to protest and voice their deep frustration over the continuous violence and killing targeting women in their community.

Protester Dudu Dube told Urban News that the demonstration was a clear message: they have had enough of women being killed.

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She described the situation in their community as unbearable and terrifying.

“Our children are dying young. We don’t know where they can be safe anymore. They are being killed and mutilated, suffering brutal deaths. This year alone, we have buried more than three children who were brutally raped and murdered.

“We live in constant fear. We are not free. We need urgent action to protect our children,” said Dube.

She said that the justice system is failing them. Despite repeatedly reporting the killings of women, they have seen no change.

Now, they are pleading with law enforcement to do their part.

Durban Deep councillor Lwanda Bini said the community has been raising concerns about the killings of women for years but has received no assistance. They now feel lost, unsure where to turn for help.

“I believe if the government addresses the issue of illegal immigrants in this area, much of the crime and killings would stop.

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“Many undocumented immigrants are involved in illegal mining, which pose a danger to us. We don’t feel safe.

“They have taken over spaces, including flats meant for South Africans, and those places are now occupied by people who threaten our safety,” said Bini.