Community in Shock After 19-Year-Old Lerato Kale’s Tragic Murder

The tight-knit community of Tsakani is grappling with shock and sorrow following the tragic death of 19-year-old Lerato Kale. Her life was brutally cut short last Thursday, allegedly at the hands of her long-term boyfriend, on Women’s Day.

Lerato’s brother, Tumelo Motaung, made the devastating discovery. He found her lifeless body in her bedroom. She was reportedly bound with her doek, hands and legs tied together, strangled with a sleeve from her sweater, and buried beneath a mound of clothes.

Recounting the heartbreaking moment, Tumelo shared that he had visited their grandmother’s house, where Lerato was residing after she failed to answer her phone. Upon entering the house, he saw a scene of chaos — dishes and clothing strewn about the floor. As he tidied up, he noticed the unusual weight of a pile of clothes. His investigation revealed the horrifying truth — his sister’s lifeless body.

Tumelo described the unforgettable trauma of that morning, explaining, “My sister has been living in fear of the suspect for over a year now. Two months ago, she was arrested for possession of stolen goods after the suspect broke into her home and stole some of their furniture.”

Also read: Gauteng Man Arrested for Murder of Girlfriend Found Inside Burnt Out Car

Lerato’s struggle extended to her education. Tumelo shared that she dropped out of school in Grade 10 due to the influence of her boyfriend, who allegedly kept her away from school for extended periods.

Despite her family’s efforts to ensure her safety, including moving her to their grandmother’s house, Lerato’s boyfriend reportedly tracked her down. The family believed that the increased security of the new residence would protect her.

The Ekurhuleni South African Police Service (SAPS) district spokesperson, Captain Neldah Sekgobela, confirmed that the authorities are actively investigating the case as a murder. The 30-year-old suspect was Lerato’s boyfriend. SAPS arrested him, and he later appeared before the Tsakani Magistrate’s Court. His formal bail hearing has been postponed to September 14, and he remains in police custody.

Source: Kale family demand justice for murdered Lerato Kale

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Picture: Twitter / SAPoliceService

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