A lesbian couple was shot to death in Edendale, South Africa, in an act of violence being investigated as a hate crime.
Nombulelo Bhixa, 28, and Minenhle Ngcobo, 22, both worked together at a store in the city center.
On August 27, the pair was shot as they were getting into a taxi. The suspect is one of the women’s ex-partners and the father of her child. He apparently did not accept that his former partner was now in a relationship with a woman, Newzroom Africa reports.
Global perspectives delivered right to your inbox
Our newsletter bridges borders to bring you LGBTQ+ news from around the world.
The alleged perpetrator had harassed the couple in the past. One of the victims reportedly filed a protection order against him after he continuously harassed the couple.
A friend of the two, Bongekile Mkhize, told The Witness, “All I know is that they were very much in love with each other.”
Mkhize also said she was “shocked and heartbroken” by the “senseless tragedy.”
“I am hurt about what has happened. What hurts the most is that no one is giving us proper answers as to what happened.”
Uthingo Network, an LGBTQ+ group based in the region, called the killing “horrific” in a statement posted on Facebook.
“This brutal act highlights the deep-seated homophobia and violence that persists in South Africa, especially in rural areas where LGBTI+ individuals are often marginalized and under-protected. The systematic lack of awareness and understanding in these communities contributes to an environment where such hate crimes can occur frequently and with little consequence,” the statement said.
“The fear of further victimization often silences those who seek justice, perpetuating a dangerous cycle of violence and impunity.”
Uthingo Network said that the government, community, and individuals should “stand together against all forms of hatred and violence, working towards a future where no one is targeted for who they are or who they love.”
A council member from the city where the shooting took place, Councilor Sanele Zuma, also condemned the deaths. “What has happened is not something we take lightly as a community. It is shocking to us that there are people who still lose their lives just because of their sexual orientation.” Zuma also noted the tragic irony of the shooting occurring during Women’s Month.
A police spokesperson, Sergeant Sifiso Gwala, confirmed to Witness that the case is under investigation, but no arrests have been made.
“We are following up on leads and appealing to the community to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation,” Gwala said.
Don’t forget to share:
