The family of Tshepang Phokobye is demanding justice after the young Hammanskraal resident was found shot dead near Pienaarsrivier, north of Pretoria, earlier this month.
According to Daily Sun, the 26-year-old, who was a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, was discovered next to the R101 road on the morning of 8 March after local residents alerted authorities. Emergency services declared them dead at the scene.
Tshepang, who was from Marokolong near Hammanskraal, had reportedly left home on Saturday evening to attend an event in Bela-Bela.
According to the Daily Sun, their uncle, Gontse Phokobye, said the family first learned of the tragedy through social media.
“I was the first to see the news of his death on social media on Sunday morning while walking in the streets,” he said.
A photo that’s been shared online and seen by MambaOnline appears to show Tshepang’s lifeless body lying in the grass.
Another uncle, Caiphus Phokobye, indicated that Tshepang was the victim of a shooting, having seen a bullet wound next to their right ear.
It’s believed that Tshepang was last seen around 3 a.m. in Pienaarsrivier, intending to buy cigarettes at a garage and then hitchhike home.
A friend of the victim told MambaOnline that Tshepang identified as a gay man; however, other reports suggest they were a transgender woman.
Loved ones described Tshepang, who was studying teaching through UNISA, as a vibrant and joyful person who loved music and dancing.
Tshepang’s aunt, Minah Mphelo, said the family is struggling to come to terms with the loss. “We are heartbroken. We were very close. I’m so weak,” she said.
The motive behind the killing is unknown. According to Rekord, police have opened a murder case. They have appealed to the public for any information that could help identify those responsible.
Neo Confidence Buthuma, Human Rights Reactor at Access Chapter 2 (AC2), extended the organisation’s deepest condolences to Tshepang’s family and loved ones.
“Tshepang was one of the participants in our safe space at Access Chapter 2,” said Buthuma. “In this difficult time, we will support the family by attending court monitoring, providing financial contributions for the funeral and ensuring they receive the legal support they need.”
On Friday, family friends and members of the community held an emotional candlelight vigil in Hammanskraal to mourn and remember Tshepang Phokobye and their life.
Anyone with information that could assist police with their investigation can contact Detective Commander Malele Hlahu on 084 445 7802 or call CrimeStop on 08600 10111.
