The Soweto community is reeling in grief after the brutal killing of 25-year-old Lesego Mutlwane, who was allegedly stabbed to death by her boyfriend, 27-year-old Tshepang Ntoampe. The tragic incident took place at Ntoampe’s home in Naledi, Soweto, leaving yet another young woman dead at the hands of someone she trusted.
According to police reports, Lesego was stabbed once in the chest during an altercation and died at the scene before emergency services could intervene. The couple shared a three-year-old child, who is now left without a mother and with a father on the run.
Police have launched an urgent manhunt for Ntoampe, who fled after the incident. Authorities are appealing to anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward. Members of the public can contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111, and callers may remain anonymous.
The death of Lesego Mutlwane has sent shockwaves through the community, reigniting public outrage over the ongoing scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. Friends and neighbours described Lesego as a kind-hearted and ambitious young woman who had a bright future ahead of her. Many gathered at her home in disbelief, struggling to come to terms with the senseless loss.
“Lesego didn’t deserve this. She loved her child and was always smiling,” said one neighbour. “Now that little one will grow up without a mother. It’s heartbreaking.”
Community members have condemned the killing and called on the police to intensify their search for the suspect. Women’s rights activists also voiced their frustration over the continued rise in femicide cases, calling for stronger protection measures for women and harsher penalties for perpetrators of domestic violence.
South Africa has one of the highest rates of gender-based violence in the world, with thousands of women assaulted or killed by intimate partners each year. Despite awareness campaigns and government initiatives, many cases still end in tragedy, leaving families and communities shattered.
Local organisations are now rallying around Lesego’s family, offering support and counselling. A small vigil is expected to be held in her honour later this week to remember her life and raise awareness about the ongoing fight against GBV.
As police continue their search for Tshepang Ntoampe, authorities have urged the public not to approach him if seen but to report any sightings immediately.
The heartbreaking death of Lesego Mutlwane serves as yet another painful reminder of how urgently South Africa needs to address domestic violence and improve the safety of women and children. For many, the question remains — when will this cycle of violence end?
Anyone with information that could assist in locating the suspect is urged to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or report it to the nearest police station. Calls can be made anonymously.
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