A BREAKTHROUGH may be on the horizon in the murder investigation of 14-year-old Likhona Fose.
City of Joburg MMC for Public Safety Mgcini Tshwaku revealed on Thursday, 5 June, that authorities are making progress in the investigation.
Likhona's mutilated body was found on Sunday evening, 1 June, not far from her home, a day after she was reported missing.
Tshwaku addressed mourners at a memorial service held at Nkone Maruping Primary School in Braamfischerville, Soweto, where he pledged the city's full commitment to apprehending perpetrators.
"We need to ensure that a tactical unit is here, and it must go and find the person who killed Likhona. That is what I'm standing here to commit to. We said we don't sleep, 24 hours we go and get them," said Tshwaku.
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While investigators have not confirmed motive for the killing, Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane indicated that authorities are investigating whether the crime may have been connected to the teenager's sexuality.
The victim's family has made an emotional appeal to Likhona's friends who were reportedly last seen with her on the day she disappeared to share what they know.
Speaking on behalf of the family at the memorial service, Likhona's uncle Mthobeni expressed their sorrow, saying the family is desperate for answers.
"Her friends know why we are here today. They were last with her. I'm saying to her friends, come forward. As the family and the police, we want them to explain to us what happened to Likhona. Why are we standing on top of her blood today?" asked Mthobeni.
Likhona will be buried at the family's homestead in the Eastern Cape on Saturday, 7 June.
