The family of Makhulu Nophumelele Makeleni, a 64-year-old woman shot and killed on August 20, is grappling with grief and seeking answers. Makhulu was reportedly murdered in what is suspected to be related to protection fee.
Simphiwe Makeleni, a family member, revealed that they have heard rumors suggesting the killing was connected to protection money. “People are talking about a protection fee, but we are letting the police handle the investigation,” Simphiwe said.
According to Simphiwe, two men approached Makhulu’s stall pretending to buy cow head meat. They then demanded money from her and followed her into a small room attached to the stall. After a period of time, a gunshot was heard. The men took Makhulu’s money and phone before fleeing.
The murder has left the family in shock. “Makhulu was a hardworking person who supported her family,” Simphiwe said. “It’s hard to understand why anyone would kill an elderly woman for money.”
Makhulu lived with her four unemployed daughters and five grandchildren. On Sunday, the house was filled with visitors attending a church service. Simphiwe, who described Makhulu as a pillar of the family, said her husband, currently in the Eastern Cape, is devastated. They had planned to move there next month.
Simphiwe noted that if Makhulu’s husband had been present, he would have been with her at the stall, which might have led to a different outcome. “They were always together, but he left two months ago to set things up in the Eastern Cape,” he explained.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, added that Makhulu was killed over a protection fee. The resident claimed the attackers demanded money she did not have, despite her previous payments to another group.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi confirmed that Makhulu was found with a gunshot wound to the back of her head at the corner of Maroela and Ntongabini Streets in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein. “The motive for the attack is under investigation,” Swartbooi said. “The suspects fled the scene, and a murder case has been opened.”
The investigation into Makhulu’s death is ongoing.
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