Johannesburg – A 39-year-old KwaZulu-Natal man who is accused of killing a 22-year-old Anele Bhengu by stabbing her multiple times, slitting her throat and cutting her stomach open has been caught.
The man who cannot be named until he makes a formal appearance at the eMbumbulu Magistrate Court on Monday was arrested by police at the eMhlahlandlini village near Port Shepstone on the province’s south coast.
According to KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Thembeka Mbhele police ambushed the accused.
“The police’s Tactical Response attached to Port Shepstone swooped on him. Police were following a lead relating to the murder of Anele Bhengu. When he saw the police, the accused fled the scene and a chase ensued. He was eventually caught hiding in a forest,” said Mbhele.
Anele’s lifeless body was found on Sunday dumped in a veld in her local area of KwaMakhutha, south of Durban. She was allegedly repeatedly raped before her throat was slit and her stomach cut open.
Anele was known to be openly lesbian and was also actively involved in a local LGBTQIA+ community.
Her killing was linked to the ongoing targeting of gay activists in the province. Her murder has also increased the atmosphere of fear and anxiety among in LGBTQIA+ community following the spiraling of incidents where those who openly declare their sexual orientation are often targeted and brutally murdered.
She was found in a pool of blood; she had been left for dead by her attackers.
Also read:
Activist found brutally killed: Durban townships dangerous place for LGBTQIA+ community
Government urges public to protect gay and lesbian community following Anele Bhengu’s death
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