The MEC for Safety and Security and Liaison, Florence Radzilani, the Makhado mayor, Cllr David Mutavhatsindi, as well as numerous learners and community members attended the funeral of the Grade 12 leaner of Manaledzi High, Aluwani Phale (21), who died at the local air force base a fortnight ago.

Aluwani's body was found in a swimming pool in the residential area at Braambos on 6 May.

Addressing the mourners, MEC Radzilani praised the police for acting quickly and arresting a suspect. Radzilani said that she did not attend funerals regularly, but the nature of the young Aluwani's death and the manner in which she had been killed had made her put everything aside to come and be with the family and to give them support. “We are here to give a helping hand and urge you to seek strength from God, who is our Saviour,” she said.

Representing the local women's forum, Ms Elisa Tambani said the community was tired of endless and senseless murders. “We have buried many women over the years in this area, and many died under mysterious circumstances. So much innocent blood has been shed and we want this to end immediately,” she said.

Family spokesperson Tommy Phale said they were greatly saddened by the death of their beloved young sister, but were consoled by the support they got from the community. He thanked all businesses, donors and the school who, upon hearing of the plight of the family, came to their rescue and ensured that the young Aluwani received a dignified funeral. "Our sister’s dreams have been cut off abruptly. She had an ambition that she would be a doctor one day, but all this is now a dream that will never come true,” he said.