By Joseph Chirume
Motherwell – Qgeberha
About 200 residents of Motherwell packed the Motherwell Assembly of God Church on Wednesday for a memorial service of murdered Lithaliyanda Ntini, 12, whose burnt body was found in the bushes of Motherwell NU6 on 24 June 2025.
The outraged audience, which included visibly traumatized learners of Elundini primary school where Ntini attended school, narrated how gender-based-violence (GBV) and the killing of innocent children were fast getting out of control, sparking a sense of fear in the community.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said in a statement that the accused is a family member. Gantana said, “The accused, Sonwabo Nqayi (30) who is married to the deceased’s sister, faces charges in connection with the crime.”
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) also issued a statement on 7 July 2025 confirming the court appearance of Sonwabo Nqayi (39) adding that he initially appeared before the Motherwell Magistrates’ Court on 30 June 2025.
Spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali said, “He faces four charges: rape, murder, kidnapping, and defeating the course of justice. The charges relate to the death of 12-year-old Lithaliyanda Ntini from Motherwell.
“It is alleged that on 24 June 2025, the accused kidnapped the minor, taking her against her will to nearby bushes in NU6. While there, he allegedly murdered her and set her body alight. The charge of defeating or obstructing the course of justice stems from the accused’s alleged failure to report the death of the minor.
“The victim had been reported missing after failing to return home from a nearby shop on 24 June 2025. Her body was discovered in the early hours of 27 June 2025, in bushes near Khabonqaba Street, NU6, Motherwell.”
“The matter has been remanded to 11 July 2025 for a formal bail application, and the NPA remains committed to ensuring that justice is served for victims of violent crime.”
Ntini’s class teacher, Linda Mdodana ran short of words to describe how one of her bright students used to energize her class. Mdodana said Ntini had a bright future. This was proven when her colourful academic results were shown to all people at the memorial service. She came out with distinctions in all subjects.
Mdodana explained, “Lithaliyanda was one of the learners you could trust with even leaving your handback with her for safekeeping. She used to assist other kids with their schoolwork and was very obedient, disciplined and an introvert.
“She was independent. She was not assisted on her work but worked independently and produced excellent results. As teachers, we observe our learners not only on their schoolwork, but also their behaviour. Lithaliyanda was best in this regard. This set her apart from other learners.”
A schoolmate of Lithaliyanda, whose surname is Charlie, reiterated what Ms Mdodana had said, “Litha was very intelligent and did not hold grudges. She was good at academics and always assisted other struggling learners. She was very humble but did not tolerate bad behaviour because she always wanted to behave in a respectful manner.”
Nelson Mandela Bay Executive Mayor, Cllr Babalwa Lobishe said, “We’re of the view that we are not going to tire, we will continue to come and support the family and also to support victims of gender-based violence. We are very resolute in terms of the fight against GBV and we are of the view that as this court considers the matter, they must consider that their ruling will be used as one of our tools to make sure that no perpetrator will think of doing this again in this region of Nelson Mandela.”
Pastor Ndubela Chumasande of the Motherwell Ministers Fraternity said, “There is a dark cloud hovering over Motherwell that is spreading and targeting our children. We don’t know where this brutality and Satanism is coming from. As church pastors, we will soon hold a get-together of all denominations to pray for deliverance against this evil.”
