The small community of Shawela Village in Limpopo has been rocked by violent protests following the brutal murder of a local woman.
Shawela Village murder sparks unrest
Residents say they are tired of what they call an endless cycle of gender-based violence.
According to police, the victim, a 36-year-old woman, was stabbed multiple times inside her home during the early hours of Sunday, 17 August 2025.
The main suspect, believed to be her boyfriend, fled the scene immediately after the attack. Police confirmed that the crime took place at about 01:35 and that the woman was found dead when officers arrived.
The Limpopo Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned the killing. She confirmed that a dedicated task team has been set up to track down the suspect.
“We wish to reiterate that we have already established a dedicated task team to track down the suspect, and the arrest of the suspect is imminent,” said Hadebe.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said early investigations show that the incident followed an argument between the victim and her boyfriend.
A case of murder has been opened, and domestic conflict has been identified as a possible motive.
The suspect, who reportedly lives in Shawela RDP, remains at large. Police have appealed to the public for help, urging anyone with information to contact authorities.
By early Monday, 18 August 2025, tensions had escalated in Shawela Village.
Residents blocked roads in protest, demanding urgent action from authorities. Many say they are tired of gender-based violence cases that keep recurring without visible change.
Lieutenant General Hadebe has called for calm, stressing that while police understand the community’s pain, protests that turn violent will not be tolerated.
She urged residents to allow police investigations to proceed without disruption.
PLEASE NOTE: If you or someone you know needs help or someone to talk to, please reach out to one of the following helplines. The Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC) offers a 24/7 toll-free helpline at 0800 428 428 and an SMS option by dialling *120*7867#. The National Crisis Helpline (Lifeline South Africa) provides counselling and support at 0861 322 322. In cases of immediate danger, you can contact the South African Police Service (SAPS) by calling 10111. For children experiencing or witnessing abuse, Childline South Africa is available toll-free at 0800 055 555. Survivors of sexual abuse and gender-based violence can also contact the Tears Foundation by calling 010 590 5920 or sending an SMS with the word “HELP” to 35858. Remember, you are not alone, and support is always available to help you through difficult times.