Twin 14-year-olds found murdered in Mamelodi West; investigators urged to prioritise case

Two 14-year-old twins, Bonolo and Botlhale Makoena, were found murdered inside their home in Mamelodi West on Friday afternoon, police said, prompting calls for a thorough investigation and appeals for anyone with information to come forward.

What happened

South African Police Service provincial spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said the circumstances surrounding the deaths are unknown at this stage and that no-one has been arrested.

“On Friday, police were called to a murder scene where they were shown the bodies of the twins inside a bedroom with multiple stab wounds. The mother reportedly found the kids when she came back from work,” she said.

Official reactions and calls for a full probe

Parliament’s portfolio committee on police chair, Ian Camer on, described the killings as disturbing and said the family deserves both answers and justice.

“Two children were killed in side their own home and their family deserves both answers and justice,” he said.

The chair urged a well-resourced investigation, saying:

“What is needed now is a thorough, properly resourced investigation using every available forensic and investigative capability to identify whoever is responsible and build a case that can withstand prosecution. We cannot become accustomed to children being murdered.”

Expert view

Prof Witness Maluleke, head of criminology and criminal justice at the University of Limpopo, suggested the violence showed signs that investigators should explore family disputes as a possible motive.

“The preliminary investigations should start there. Unfortunately, this resulted in the deaths of innocent souls,” he said.

“Anger, jealousy and revenge should not be used to send a message to anyone,” he said.

Community support and appeals

Not In My Name International national spokesperson Boitumelo Thage called on police to prioritise the investigation and offered condolences.

“No words can fully express the pain of losing two children in this horrific manner. We extend our deepest condolences to their mother, their family, friends and the community of Mamelodi,” said Thage.

Security Personnel Party of South Africa spokesperson Dimakatso Modipa and others have pleaded with anyone with information to share it with police.