Naaupoort- North West MEC for Social Development Fenny Gaolaolwe on Tuesday sympathised with Tau family at Naaupoort following the gruesome murder of the 83 year-old Semela Tau on Sunday.

According to the family member who could not be named for fear of victimisation, the suspect allegedly broke the window of the granny’s bedroom to gain entrance. He allegedly raped and throttle the granny until she died. The minor hid himself in the wardrobe and survived to tell the tale.

On Tuesday MEC Gaolaolwe accompanied by MEC for Public Safety and Transport Management Oageng Molapisi comforted the family and assured them government support.

During the visit Gaolaolwe said social workers have, since Monday offered trauma counselling to the minor who was with the granny at the time of the incident. She said family members are also receiving trauma counselling.

“Depending on the home circumstance report to be compiled by the social workers we deployed here, we will see to it that we provide grocery and other social assistance to the family through our social relief of distress programme,” Gaolaolwe said.

Meanwhile MEC Molapisi advised the family members not to take the law into their own hands and allow the law to take its course.

“Every day, very hour, every 30 seconds gruesome acts of violence are being perpetuated against the vulnerable groups of our people especially women and children. We condemn this heinous act,” Molapisi said, adding that residents should support the local community policing forum and safety forum in the area.

Local headman Mathew Jongani said they really need protection at Naaupoort and the surrounding villages.

It was reported that community members apprehended the suspect and held him ransom at the late granny’s house, threatening to torch him before the police arrived. They later handed over the suspect to the police after long deliberations.

The suspect was arrested and put in custody at Mooifontein while the investigation continues.-TDN
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