Free State social development MEC Mathabo Leeto visited the aggrieved family of Nonzenza Mtsi (87) in Phahameng, Bultfontein, whose brutal murder has sparked outrage in the community.

Mtsi was stabbed eleven times in her home after withdrawing her social grant, apparently on Friday (3/1). Her body was discovered the following day by her great-grandchild.

“It’s heartbreaking that the killing of our elderly people persists in our province,” said Leeto. “As a department, we respect the independence of older persons and do not advocate for their forced relocation to old age homes without their consent.

“However, the perpetrator who killed Mme Mtsi is believed to be a young person, not an elder. We demand swift action from the police to apprehend this criminal and bring them to justice.”

She offered her condolences to the victim’s family and called on the community to work together to safeguard elderly people. She also urged the youth in Bultfontein to take responsibility for the protection of elders in their neighbourhoods.

Departmental spokesperson Thembile Nqabeni said Phahameng residents expressed concern about a house frequented by individuals engaging in substance abuse. They claimed police often ignored the suspicious activities at the location. MEC Leeto promised to collaborate with other departments to ensure community safety.

Killings of elderly people, women and children in the province continue to raise concerns. On Monday (6/1), a 55-year-old was fatally stabbed in Grassland, allegedly by her daughter (20) during an argument. The suspect was arrested, and an investigation is underway.

In Smithfield, a 36-year-old was discovered by a friend, lying lifeless on her bed with multiple injuries to her head and body. A man (37), allegedly found with some of the victim's belongings, has been arrested for her murder.

In Thaba Nchu, a five-year-old was found dead in a yard in Zone 4 Extension on Tuesday (7/1). Police arrested a man (64), who was severely beaten by a mob. A bloodied knife believed to be the murder weapon was discovered in the suspect’s home.

‘These acts of violence are tearing apart our communities’

Preliminary investigations indicated the man had been seen with the child shortly before the boy screamed and collapsed with a stab wound to his neck. The child reportedly cried out for his aunt, who was inside the house, before falling to the ground.

Leeto reiterated the province’s commitment to tackling GBV and protecting vulnerable groups. “These acts of violence are tearing apart our communities. We must unite to end these atrocities and hold perpetrators accountable.”

Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli confirmed that investigations into these incidents are ongoing. The suspects are expected to appear in various courts soon.

The MEC emphasised the importance of community collaboration in addressing the root causes of violence, ensuring that the province’s elderly, women, and children are safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg