Elderly woman killed in Balgowan, KZN

An 85-year-old woman was murdered after she was allegedly sexually assaulted at her Balgowan home, just outside Howick, on Wednesday afternoon. uMngeni Municipality deputy mayor and ward councillor Sandile Mnikathi called the incident a “devastating blow,” stressing that farm and rural attacks threaten all residents, regardless of race. “This senseless and barbaric act of violence is a devastating blow to our community,” said Mnikathi.

It serves as a stark reminder that farm and rural attacks are a threat to all our residents, regardless of race, and that rural safety must be treated as an urgent national priority. Mnikathi, who was working with the woman and her family to provide electricity, expressed heartbreak over her death. It is heartbreaking that her life was stolen in such a brutal manner while we still tried to meet her basic needs.

He added this incident highlights the vulnerability of marginalised rural communities. He said the lack of infrastructure, like street lighting as a critical safety issue the municipality aims to address. Mnikathi has sent condolences to the family and urges the police for swift arrest and justice.