Johannesburg -The ANC will hold a memorial service for a young girl raped and brutally killed in Naturena, south of Johannesburg, party officials said on Thursday.

“We will on (next) Thursday hold a memorial service for Thandeka ahead of her funeral next weekend,” said Gauteng ANC spokesman Sakhile Khumalo.

“We will… announce a complete programme the African national Congress will launch to ensure that her death is not in vain and that crime in this area and in the province is dealt a serious blow.”

Thandeka Madonsela was raped and mutilated last Saturday. Her body was found dumped near the N1.

Khumalo and other Gauteng provincial caucus members visited relatives of the orphaned girl earlier on Thursday.

Speaking to residents and relatives, Khumalo said Naturena and Freedom Park were plagued by crimes against women and children.

“This area is plagued by serious crimes, inclusive of murder, women and children abuse, as well a number of unsolved murders and disappearances,” he said.

“At this point we are not sure of the reasons that give rise to crime in the area. It appears there are numerous interventions by our law enforcement, but these do not appear to produce the required results.”

Khumalo said the caucus would be holding a series of anti-abuse campaigns against women and children in the area.

Two boys, aged 16 and 17, were arrested for Madonsela’s murder.

“(They) have since appeared in court and their case is postponed for further investigation. They were released into the custody of their parents until their next court appearance,” said Lt-Col Katlego Mogale. – Sapa