Following the death of a 16-year-old girl, Ntwanano Hlungwani, the Giyani Police in South Africa, have appealed to locals for assistance in providing data that would lead to the arrest of a van driver and his crew, who have connections to her death.
A burial ceremony has been arranged for the deceased on Saturday, September 10, outside of Malamulel in Mtititi (Alten) village.
Constable Ridgewell Rikhotso, the police spokesperson, stated that on Saturday, September 3, 2022, the deceased and another young girl were given a ride by a driver of a white freight van from Mtititi village to Mninginisi block 02 on the outskirts of Giyani.
According to Rikhotso, the vehicle, which was to take the girl to her village, passed her bus stop at a very high speed.
The vehicle then made a turn towards another road and continued to move at a higher speed.
“The two victims decided to jump off and they were both injured. They were found lying next to the road by other motorists who informed the police about the incident,” the spokesman said.
“By the time the police got to the scene, one was in critical condition. Emergency personnel were called to the scene, and both victims were taken to the hospital for medical attention.
“Upon their arrival in hospital, Twanano Hlungwani (16) from Mtititi (Alten) succumbed to her wounds.”
He stated that the investigation was still underway and urged anyone with information that would be relevant to the case to get in touch with Warrant Officer Mlambo.
Speaking on the incident on Thursday, Charles Mashab, the young girl’s uncle, stated that his niece died trying to save her life.
“Rest in Peace My Niece. You Took a Giant Step that ended your life Abruptly, Hopping to Save Your Life,” he said.
