The community of Limpopo has been left shattered by the tragic death of 24-year-old radio presenter, Lerato Queen Selotole, who was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend in Ga-Patamedi, Block 5, Mokwakwaila. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, 17 August 2025, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for justice against gender-based violence.
Lerato, affectionately known to listeners as “Queen,” was a rising star at Perfect Radio, where she hosted the Drive-Show. Colleagues described her as passionate, dedicated, and loved by many. Her sudden death has sent shockwaves through Limpopo’s media industry and devastated her family, colleagues, and friends.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Perfect Radio Station Manager, Raymond Selowa, remembered Lerato as a determined young woman who had a bright future ahead of her. “She was passionate about radio and always gave her best. She joined us after graduating from the University of Venda and quickly became a listener favorite,” he said. Selowa added that Lerato’s personal struggles with abuse were well-known, claiming that the suspect, her boyfriend, was jealous of her achievements and often tried to restrict her involvement in community activities.
Family Speaks Out Against Justice System Failures
The Selotole family expressed anger and despair, blaming the justice system for failing Lerato. Her uncle, David Selotole, revealed that the suspect had a troubling history of abuse. “He stabbed her in the back a few months ago. We had him arrested, but he was released. Today, we are hopeless and helpless because the system let us down,” he told Daily Sun.
Lerato and the suspect shared a three-year-old son, a detail that has deepened the family’s grief. David further expressed fears that if the suspect is not held accountable, he could harm others in the future. “If he wasn’t released, Lerato would still be alive today. We demand justice for her and protection for other women,” he said.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed that officers were alerted to the crime scene at Ga-Patamedi. “Upon arrival, they discovered the victim’s body covered with a blanket inside a room. She had visible scratch marks on her face and neck,” Mashaba explained.
According to police reports, Lerato and the suspect had an altercation that escalated into violence. The suspect’s brother allegedly tried to intervene but left the scene. When he later returned, he reportedly found Lerato lying lifeless on the floor.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident and appeared in court on Tuesday, 19 August 2025. Police investigations are ongoing.
Calls for Justice and End to GBV
The murder of Lerato Queen Selotole has reignited debates about South Africa’s fight against gender-based violence. Community members, colleagues, and listeners have taken to social media to mourn her death and demand harsher punishments for perpetrators of abuse.
As Limpopo reels from the tragedy, many remember Lerato not only for her talent and dedication but also as yet another victim of a justice system that too often fails to protect women. Her death stands as a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need to strengthen measures against domestic violence.
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