The coldcase murder of Phumelele Dhlamini - Kromdraai, Witbank, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa - November 9, 2017
Author: A.B.
Thirty-year-old Phumelele Dhlamini, her mother Hlangulu Martha Dhlamini, and her two young children were at their home on the Kromdraai plots in Emalahleni (Witbank), South Africa. Around 9:30 PM (21:30) that Thursday night, when it was already dark, Hlangulu heard their dog barking. Looking out the window, she saw someone breaking a window. At the same time, a second man was forcing his way through the metal security door in the kitchen. In total, three men managed to gain entry to the house.
The attackers restrained the family with cable ties and demanded money. Phumelele attempted to flee with her children, but was caught. She was beaten with a sjambok—a traditional African whip made from animal hide—and the assailants also used the sjambok to beat the children.
They started taking goods from the house, a micro oven, a DVD player, electric kettle, a duvet, blankets and three Samsung cell phones, and putting them in a car, a Toyota Corolla (registration DHP 383 MP). The three attackers ordered Phumelele, at gunpoint, to drive with them in the vehicle, forcing her to leave her children and mother behind. Her body was found at 6:00 AM the following morning by a passersby going to work, very close the house.
Phumelele was born in 1986 and, according to her brother, was known for her kindness and warm spirit. She was deeply loved by many people in her community and cherished her children and her business. Her brother recalled how close they were, sharing that she used to call him every day and that their bond was very strong. He described her passing as a heartbreaking loss for the family and the community, especially given the tragic circumstances.
The murder case has remained largely outside both national and international attention. As far as is known, there has been no follow-up coverage in the media, and authorities have not issued any specific statements regarding progress in the Phumelele Dhlamini case. The investigation appears to have gone cold and is likely closed, as is the case with many similar incidents in South Africa, often due to limited leads or resources.
Like countless families across South Africa, Phumelele’s loved ones remain hopeful that someone will eventually come forward with information to help bring justice for her. Against all odds, they continue to believe that those responsible for her murder will one day be held accountable.
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