The family of Egnar Tswane Sondezi, a 64-year-old woman from Nquthu, KwaZulu-Natal, is devastated after her brutal killing on Sunday, February 9.
Reports reveal that Sondezi had shared her fear with her grandson the night before the attack after hearing footsteps outside her home. In response, she left her room to take refuge in a rondavel on the property.
A group of attackers soon stormed the residence, located Sondezi in the rondavel, and shot her more than 20 times before fleeing the scene.
Her daughter, Fikile Tsotetsi, expressed shock over the incident, stating, “We are confused why my mother was killed in such a callous manner.”
She explained that Sondezi had been living with her grandson during the attack but refrained from speculating on the motive, emphasizing trust in law enforcement to investigate.
Colonel Robert Netshiunda, spokesperson for KwaZulu-Natal police, confirmed that a murder case has been opened.
Matho Shozi, provincial coordinator for the ANC Women’s League task team, condemned the murder as “heinous” and a clear sign that women in the region remain vulnerable. She urged the community to cooperate with authorities to ensure those responsible are apprehended.
“We strongly condemn the brutal murder of a woman,” Shozi added, pointing to the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence.
Shozi expressed confidence in law enforcement’s ability to track down the attackers and bring justice for the family.
