Johannesburg – The Easter Bible Story remembers the main Christian event: Christ’s suffering, crucifixion, and resurrection.
This week, a family in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, remembers the murder three years ago of their loved one, Ntwetle Sanelisiwe Sibiya.
On that fateful day in February 2022, the 25-year-old lay motionless, dead, next to a couch in the lounge of the Riversands apartment she shared with her boyfriend in Johannesburg.
When security officers in the complex responded to the screams and cries for help, they were shocked at what they found when they opened the front door.
Seated on the couch was boyfriend, Ziphozethu Shange, on his PlayStation.
Ntwetle’s bloodied body was visible on the floor.
The trail of blood found in the lounge, bedroom, and bathroom was evidence of how the young woman suffered at the brutal hands of Shange.
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A month before the fatal assault, Ntwetle had reported her boyfriend, Shange, to the police after he battered her and left her with bruises.
Within weeks of making the report, Ntwetle was found dead.
Three years later, the bereaved family has found closure – Shange has been convicted and sentenced.
For Christians, Easter is the remembrance of Christ’s voluntary death and resurrection to save humankind from sin and death.
This year, there was no deliverance for the KwaZulu-Natal family. The end of Easter delivered a bittersweet reality.
Ntwetle’s death was not voluntary, and she will not be resurrected.
After years of postponements, Shange’s matter was finally concluded with his conviction and sentence for the murder of Ntwetle.
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“The man responsible – her boyfriend, who was supposed to love and protect her – has now been sentenced to 12 years in direct imprisonment,” lamented the family,” her family told The Bulrushes soon after the Easter holiday.
“While we may never see her again, justice has been served on her behalf.”
Needless to say, the 12-year sentence meted out to Shange for murder has raised eyebrows.
During Shange’s numerous appearances at the Alexander Magistrate’s Court, the family could not travel from KwaZulu-natal to Johannesburg to attend the trial.
“Throughout the process, despite being in KwaZulu-Natal, we were constantly kept informed about the progress of the court proceedings,” the family said.
“Three years ago, we lost our sister at a young age, and her absence is still felt profoundly.
“Today, we are grateful to an Investigating Officer Hleleleni from Midrand Police Station, whose dedication and commitment to her case have made a significant difference.
“We sincerely commend and appreciate the efforts of the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority.
“Your unwavering dedication has brought us some comfort during this difficult time. Thank you.”
To The Bulrushes the family said: “Thank you also for touching base with us may you also be blessed”.
