Khayelitsha rallies for LGBTQ+ rights after homophobic attack on teenager
Community members protest outside the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ Court.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Media
Protestors gathered outside the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ Court on Monday after the killing of 16-year-old, Kwakhanya Mhlanganisi, of Site C in what is believed to have been a homophobic attack.
Police confirmed that a 17-year-old male was arrested on Sunday and appeared in court on Monday.
Outside the court, protesters vowed to continue demonstrating until justice is served and systemic protection for LGBTQ+ youth improves.
Kwakhanya, a learner from Intlanganiso High School, was killed in the early hours of Thursday, 4 December, in BT-Block, Site C.
According to Sibusiso Orestes Nqunqeka of the Khulani Khayelitsha Queer Hub, the community was reeling after the incident that left Ntlanganiso “raped, torched, and killed, with his eyes also removed”.
Kwakhanya Mhlanganisi
Image: Supplied
“This horrific incident has deeply affected our community,” he added ahead of Monday’s court proceedings.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed the case and arrest. “Khayelitsha police registered a murder case for investigation following the death of a 16-year-old boy on Thursday at about 12:15 am, in BT-Block, Site C, Khayelitsha. Police members attended to the crime scene where they found the victim who sustained multiple injuries to his body,” Twigg confirmed. “The victim was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.”
“The motive for the attack forms part of the police investigation. We can confirm that a 17-year-old male was arrested in connection with the incident on Sunday and will appear in the Khayelitsha Magistrates’ court today”
Meanwhile, NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed the court proceedings. “The NPA can confirm that a child in conflict with the law appeared at the Khayelitsha Magistrate’s Court today charged with murder.”
“The case against the 17-year-old has been postponed until December 10, 2025 for bail application and place of safety. The State will oppose the release of the child in conflict with the law.”
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