Slayed Princess Rolivhuwa Mphaphathi was laid to rest last Friday night at the Dopeni royal graveyard (Tshiendeulu).

She was given a royal funeral service at her home, prior to the burial. Rolivhuwa died at Siloam hospital a few days after she was found in the bushes near the Dopeni graveyard, following an alleged attack that left her with fatal injuries.

The death of the former Grade 10 pupil of Tshilogoni Secondary School left the whole community in shock. Different stakeholders, including Tshilogoni learners, teachers, officials of the Thulamela municipality, the ANC women's league and many others attended the funeral. Ward 27 councillor for Thulamela, Mr Livhuwani Maduse, urged community members who might have any information regarding her death to come forward and assist the police. “I refuse to believe that this happened, especially during the day, without anyone's noticing something,” he said.

A learners' representative, Phindulo Sithubi, pleaded with the police and traditional leaders to take the necessary measures to ensure that learners are safe and protected. Chief Mulindathavha Ralinala of Dopeni said that he was hugely angered and hurt by this incident. “This is the second incident in the area and I need to see justice served for the victims,” he added.

W/O Edward Tharaga said that the investigation was still continuing.