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GRAAFF-REINET NEWS AND VIDEO - The Cluster Commander of the Graaff-Reinet SAPS, Brigadier Rudolph Adolph, commended members of the community this week for taking it upon themselves to raise awareness against the abuse of women and children.
This comes after locals sang in protest through the streets of Graaff-Reinet last Wednesday, 15 August, to vent their grief after the brutal murder of the 21-year old security officer, Athandiwe Galela.
The protest was led by ANC ward councillor Xolile Galada.
Galela's body was discovered on Sunday morning, 5 August, by a colleague at around 08:35 when he reported for duty.
She was found with injuries to her head and face. Speaking to the Advertiser, Galela's sister, Nofindile Fihlani said the family mourns her loss, especially her 1-year old son.
"Her death came as a big shock to the whole family. This was an injustice to her son that will have to grow up without a mother," said Fihlani.
Fihlani said she is grateful to the Graaff-Reinet police for working tirelessly to find her sister's murderer.
Galela was laid to rest on Saturday, 11 August at her hometown in Lusikisiki.
Watch a video below.
Brig Adolph said police monitored the protest but reported no violent outbreaks.
"I am proud of the Graaff-Reinet community who resisted cruelty against women in a peaceful and respectful way," said the brigadier.
He said investigations into Galela's murder are still pending. Adolph confirmed no one could yet be linked to the shocking incident.
"Nobody can be connected to the murder at this stage of the investigation."
Brig Adolph said he is aware of rumours that are circulating, implicating a person.
He said the stories are dangerous and harmful to ongoing investigations. He also requested for people to come forward if they have any information regarding the incident.
"Yes there are rumours, but we as the police would like to plead with the community to come forward and speak to us."
He said it is risky for people to drop the names of people who cannot be implicated in the murder.
"It can result in the community to attack innocent people and we cannot condone it."
Brig Adolph said for the moment, police need to continue with the investigation without interference.
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