The family of Relebohile “Mmoke” Precious Makhore is struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of the 20-year-old woman, who was allegedly killed in the Caleb Motshabi location in Bloemfontein. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the local community, reportedly occurred around midnight on Sunday, 25 January 2026.
According to information gathered by *Free State World*, Relebohile was allegedly killed by someone known to the family, deepening the pain and sense of betrayal felt by her loved ones. Family members described her death as both heartbreaking and difficult to comprehend, saying her life was cut short just as she was preparing to build her future.
Speaking to *Free State World*, relatives of the deceased said the family is still in shock and struggling to process the events surrounding Relebohile’s death. An aunt of the young woman described her as vibrant, respectful and full of promise. “She was a young girl with dreams and plans for her life. Losing her in such a violent way has left a deep wound in our family,” she said.
The family also expressed appreciation for the cooperation shown by the mother of the alleged suspect. According to the aunt, the woman’s willingness to work with law enforcement played a crucial role in ensuring that the suspect was arrested swiftly. “We commend her for doing the right thing. It takes courage to stand for justice, even when it involves your own child,” she added.
Investigators are currently analysing CCTV footage that allegedly captured the moments leading up to the incident. The footage reportedly shows the perpetrator forcing Relebohile into a vehicle. This video evidence is now central to the police investigation and is expected to assist authorities as they piece together the final movements of the young woman before her death.
Relebohile was a matric learner in 2025 at Moemedi High School, where she was known among peers and teachers as a determined and soft-spoken learner. Former classmates described her as friendly and focused, with aspirations of furthering her studies and improving her family’s circumstances. Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief from friends, community members and former schoolmates, many of whom have taken to social media to express their condolences.
Community leaders in Caleb Motshabi have condemned the killing and called for justice, while also urging residents to work closely with law enforcement to combat gender-based violence. Relebohile’s death adds to the growing list of young women whose lives have been lost to violent crime, sparking renewed calls for stronger interventions to protect women and children.
As investigations continue, the Makhore family has appealed for privacy while they mourn their loved one. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in due course. Meanwhile, the community remains united in grief, remembering Relebohile “Mmoke” Precious Makhore as a young woman whose life ended far too soon.
About the Author
