The search for missing Hillary Indira Gardee has ended in tragedy – her body was found abandoned outside Mbombela (Nelspruit) in Mpumalanga, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) said Tuesday.
“The EFF regrets, with deep sadness, to inform the public about the passing of the daughter of EFF former secretary general, Hillary Gardee,” said a statement released by the party mid-morning.
Her body was found abandoned outside Mbombela (Nelspruit) in Mpumalanga, after she had gone missing on 29 April 2022.
“This heart-breaking news has left the Gardee family distraught, and the collective leadership of the EFF at a loss for words,” said the statement.
Twenty-eight-year Hillary – born in Lagos, Nigeria – was the first-born daughter of EFF Commissar Godrich Gardee.
“Her loss has left immeasurable devastation, as he grapples with the pain of losing a child in such a callous, cruel and inhumane manner,” said the EFF.
Hillary was an enthusiastic, kind and loving individual, who had a passion for Information Technology.
She was a student at the University of South Africa, studying IT part-time, while running her own IT business.
“Her kindness and generosity were most evident in her commitment to adopt and care for a three-year-old child, who by the grace of God was spared on the day of Hillary’s abduction,” said the EFF.
“She looked after the child as if she were her own, an inspiring act for a woman of such a young age.
“We send our deepest condolences and sympathies to Commissar Gardee, the Gardee family and those who were close to Hillary.
“We mourn with the Gardee family, and will provide a helping hand to ensure that her memory is preserved and she goes to her final resting place with dignity.”
The police said Hillary’s bruised body was discovered some 40km from Nelspruit by passers-bye on their way to work. They are investigating a case of murder.
