Justice for Ayabonga Mjilo: KZN Premier condemns kidnap and murder of 21-year-old woman
Justice for Ayabonga Mjilo: KZN Premier condemns kidnap and murder of 21-year-old woman! KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has strongly denounced the kidnapping and murder of Ayabonga Mjilo, a 21-year-old woman last seen in uMhlanga on Christmas Day. The brutal crime has shocked the province and reignited calls to address gender-based violence.
Disappearance and Investigation
Ayabonga Mjilo was last seen leaving a restaurant in uMhlanga on December 25 with a male companion. When she failed to return home, her worried family reported her missing, and a case of kidnapping was opened.
After weeks of investigation, KwaZulu-Natal police made a breakthrough on Saturday, January 4, with the arrest of a 37-year-old man linked to her disappearance. The suspect, who was reportedly Mjilo’s manager at work, was apprehended at his residence in Amaotana, Inanda.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda provided chilling details about the investigation.
“During the investigations, it was discovered that the man, who was her manager at work, took her to his home in the Amaotana area in Inanda. The two reportedly had an altercation, and the man allegedly strangled her to death and buried her body in his yard,” said Netshiunda.
Condemnation from Premier Ntuli
Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli expressed outrage over the crime, describing it as heinous and calling for swift justice.
“The brutal killing of Ayabonga Mjilo is a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead in our mission to end gender-based violence. I commend the SAPS for their tireless efforts and urge the judiciary to impose the harshest possible punishment for such heinous crimes. KwaZulu-Natal has no place for individuals who commit these atrocities,” said Ntuli.
The Premier emphasized that the province remains committed to tackling gender-based violence and supporting affected families.
Condolences to the Family
Premier Ntuli extended his heartfelt condolences to Mjilo’s family, friends, and loved ones, recognizing the profound pain caused by her tragic death.
“On behalf of the KwaZulu-Natal Government, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Ayabonga. Losing a young woman in such a brutal manner is a devastating tragedy. We stand in solidarity with the family as they mourn this heartbreaking loss, and we will continue to support them as they seek justice.”
Legal Proceedings
The suspect is set to appear at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday, January 6, facing multiple charges, including kidnapping, murder, and defeating the ends of justice. The arrest has brought some relief to Mjilo’s grieving family, who have called for justice to be served swiftly.
Authorities are expected to rely on forensic evidence and witness testimonies to strengthen the case against the suspect.
A Call to Action Against Gender-Based Violence
Mjilo’s tragic death underscores the ongoing struggle to combat gender-based violence in South Africa, a country where such crimes are alarmingly prevalent. Premier Ntuli reiterated the need for collective action, urging communities to play a role in preventing violence against women and children.
“The killing of Ayabonga is a stark reminder that we cannot rest until gender-based violence is eradicated. It is not just the government’s responsibility but that of every community member to ensure the safety of women and children,” he said.
Community Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage and sadness across KwaZulu-Natal, with many expressing their condolences and frustration over the persistence of gender-based violence.
Local organizations advocating for women’s rights have called for harsher penalties for perpetrators and greater community involvement in preventing such tragedies.
Moving Forward
As the province comes to terms with this devastating loss, authorities and community leaders are vowing to intensify efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence. The KwaZulu-Natal government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting victims and ensuring that perpetrators face the full extent of the law.
Mjilo’s tragic death serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for action, and her memory will continue to inspire efforts to create a safer society for all.
