The family of a Mpumalanga woman allegedly killed by an off-duty security guard is calling for justice as her children struggle to cope with the traumatic events they witnessed.
Thirty-six-year-old Lebogang Phetla was shot and killed in Vaalbank, Mpumalanga, on Saturday evening during what has been described as a domestic dispute.
According to reports, Phetla’s four children watched helplessly as the confrontation turned fatal. The suspect, identified as 45-year-old Sello Seletja, is accused of opening fire on the mother of four while the children pleaded with him to stop.
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Seletja, an off-duty security officer, has since been charged with murder and attempted murder after a second victim, a 34-year-old man, was also wounded in the shooting.
Vusi Phetla, the victim’s brother, described the devastating scene that greeted him when he arrived.
“When I arrived at the scene, I found a lifeless body lying on the floor with one [bullet] hole. My nephews were in the police van. They were all crying non-stop.”
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Witnesses told The Times Post that around 14 shots were fired during the incident, with at least three bullets striking Lebogang Phetla.
“This is one of the most painful situations that I will have to face for the rest of my life. It’s a trauma that my nephews will never forget.”
Family Says Trauma And Grief Continue After Fatal Vaalbank Shooting
Following the shooting, Seletja allegedly fled the scene before police later found him hiding in a shack more than 20 kilometres away.
Maria Phetla, the victim’s relative, spoke emotionally about the heartbreak facing the family.
“She was already cold when I found her. I cried, ‘Lebo, you’ve left me with your kids. What will I do with them?’ I don’t know what to do. It’s too painful. I can’t sleep at night. I’m now dependent on pills. I don’t know what to do. This hurts a lot. I wish I could wake her up, but it’s not possible.”
Family members have also raised concerns over the pace of the investigation, saying they fear justice could be delayed.
Mbibane Magistrate’s Court To Hear Bail Proceedings
With gender-based violence and femicide continuing to plague South Africa, the family hopes Lebogang Phetla’s death will not become another unresolved tragedy.
The suspect is expected to return to the Mbibane Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where relatives and community organisations are expected to oppose bail.
