A 21-year-old woman, Zanele Dibaza, was tragically killed by her boyfriend on New Year’s Day in Greenfields, Gqeberha. Her family grew worried after she didn’t return home, and her sister, Anela, went to the boyfriend’s house to search for her.

There, Anela discovered Zanele’s naked body with severe head injuries. Zanele was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

The boyfriend, 25-year-old Baxolise, later handed himself over to the police and was charged with murder. He made his first court appearance on 5 January 2025.

Zanele had been excited to take her family to the beach after receiving her paycheck and had promised to buy snacks for the children. A candlelight vigil was held in her memory on 8 January 2025 in Qunu, Booysens Park. The community and her loved ones are calling for justice.