By Doreen Mokgolo
Little Bokgabo Poo was finally laid to rest on Monday morning.
During the emotional ceremony at Van Dyk Cemetery in Wattville, Ekurhuleni her family and friends gathered to share the memories they had with Bokgabo.
The four-year-old was found murdered last month after going missing while playing with her friends at a local park near her home. Images of her last moments on earth were captured on CCTV of her walking away with her alleged killer, Ntokozo Zikhali.
Her body parts were found in two shallow graves 800 metres apart, defaced with some of her limbs removed.
Last week DNA results confirmed that the remains of a minor found in Actonville were indeed that of the missing Bokgabo Poo giving the family the go ahead for the funeral.
During the funeral service, mourners broke down in tears when a video of the little girl’s vibrant life captured in pictures was played.
Gogo Muntu Segage from the Traditional Healers Association said only evil people use human body parts for their evil deeds.
“Our image as traditional healers has been tainted by the evil actions of perpetrators who kill elderly women and innocent children for their body parts,” she said.
“We urge traditional healers to speak out and fight the growing trend of senseless killings. This should not be done in our name.”
The Deputy Minister of State Security, Zizi Kodwa promised the family that Bokgabo’s death will be avenged.
“We urge the community of Wattville to be united and fight the senseless killing of women and children,” he said.
“Bokgabo’s death must be the last. Community policing forums and street committees must help fight criminal elements in this community.”
The community leaders have urged the City of Ekurhuleni to rename the park where Bokgabo was kidnapped in her honour.
Bokgabo’s alleged killer is expected to appear before the Benoni Magistrate’s Court on 14 November.
Pictured above: Bokgabo’s parents and siblings at her coffin
Image credit: Doreen Mokgolo
