By: Natasha Archary

Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane promised the community of Soshanguve that more security and police patrols will be deployed in the area following the rape and murder of Palesa Malatji.
The 17-year-old matriculant from Ntsako Secondary School was brutally raped and murdered on Friday, 26 May, on her way home after attending extra classes.
Palesa’s body was found in a veld near her school, which sparked a mass public outcry from the community who say they are living in fear.
The bright matriculant who had hopes of becoming a pharmacist, was last seen leaving school on Thursday, 25 May, but never returned home.
Chiloane made the promise to Palesa’s family and the community on Monday, 29 May, where he also made the bold statement that the perpetrators would be brought to justice within the week.
“As a department within 1-week, we will come back to you and show you the case will be dealt with.
The perpetrators of this heinous crime, will be arrested, and we will make sure that those responsible will never see the light of day.
We are tired of dealing with criminals affecting our children.”
According to Chiloane, the police have prioritized the case, saying the matter has been escalated at the provincial level.
Angry Soshanguve community members protested at the school, demanding justice for Palesa Malatji, ahead of Chiloane’s address.
Chiloane promised that from Tuesday, 30 May, more security and police patrols will ensure that learners will be safe when walking to and from school.
“As of tomorrow, 30 May, we are going to have more security in schools. That is to make sure that when you are in school you are also safe. We have spoken with the Premier’s wardens, and after school they will go with the pupils, especially those that take after school classes.
You will be accompanied by patrollers when you go home, to make sure that you are all safe. The police have also committed full-time visibility at schools from now on.”
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane promises more security at Soshanguve schools following the rape and murder of Palesa Malatji



