What began as a social gathering among family members ended in tragedy when a 19-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed to death by her boyfriend, who is also accused of attempting to kill her brother-in-law.
The alleged killer, 36-year-old Jeffery Ravele of Tshavhalovhedzi, appeared briefly in the Dzanani Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 15 June, facing charges of murder and attempted murder. His case was postponed to 24 June for further police investigations and a possible bail application.
The deceased, 19-year-old Zwivhuya Raphala of Matanda village in Nzhelele, had reportedly visited her sister in Tshituni Tsha Fhasi on Sunday, 14 June. Family members were socialising and drinking when the incident occurred.
According to information circulating in the community, Zwivhuya telephoned her boyfriend to inform him that she was spending time at her sister’s home. He allegedly arrived at the gathering and joined the family. It is further alleged that Ravele later accused Raphala of being unfaithful.
Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi said the group later went to sleep at the home of Alidzuli Matodzi.
“During the night, the suspect allegedly followed Zwivhuya and stabbed her with a knife. When Alidzuli attempted to intervene and stop the attack, he was also allegedly stabbed,” said Dathi.
Matodzi sustained serious injuries and was hospitalised. Raphala died.
Ravele reportedly went to a police station after the attack and, following preliminary investigations, Mphephu police opened murder and attempted murder dockets before arresting him.
Ward 35 councillor Thivhakoni Mudzwiri said she was shattered by the incident.
“We are at all times preaching the gospel against violence against women and children, but it seems not to work. Young people are being killed senselessly. We are waiting for good things from our youth, but this happens. This is a very sad state of affairs and our wish is that it stops completely. We do not even know what is fuelling this,” she said.
The deceased’s brother, Khathu Ramukulo, said he was overwhelmed with grief. “I am totally heartbroken,” he said.