Murder suspect in Shireena Birch case surrenders to police amid calls for justice
Shireena Birch, a well-known activist in Bonteheuwel, was tragically murdered in a suspected gender-based violence attack, allegedly by her husband.
Image: supplied
The community of Bonteheuwel is reeling with shock after one of its beloved activists, Shireena Birch, was stabbed to death during a gender-based violence attack, allegedly at the hands of her own husband.
By late Wednesday afternoon, police confirmed an arrest.
Police spokesperson, Captain FC Van Wyk explained: "Be advised that an adult male was arrested earlier today, February 4 for a charge of murder. He is due to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates court once charged."
Van Wyk, said Birch had been stabbed in the head, back, and shoulder by her attacker and was declared dead on arrival at hospital.
“Circumstances surrounding a stabbing incident on Tuesday, February 3, at a premises in Assegaai Avenue, Bonteheuwel, in which an adult female was stabbed and fatally injured, are under investigation,” he detailed.
“The victim sustained stab wounds to the head and the back of her shoulder. Bishop Lavis police registered a murder case for investigation.
“According to reports, the members received a complaint of a person who was stabbed and declared deceased at a local hospital. On their arrival, they were shown the body of the deceased who was declared dead on arrival. The motive for this stabbing incident is yet to be determined.
Ward councillor, Angus Mckenzie, who had known Birch personally and worked alongside her in the community, condemned the act of GBV and appealed for her attacker to hand himself over to the police.
“I was informed of the tragic and violent attack on Shireena that ultimately led to her murder,” he said. “I knew Shireena well. She visited my office on numerous occasions. She was a partner of mine in the work of making Bonteheuwel a better, safer place. She was present, committed, and deeply passionate about her community.
“And yet, despite knowing her, despite working alongside her, I did not know the extent of the abuse, the assault, the pain, and the trauma that Shireena endured daily at the hands of the man who was meant to protect her, her husband.
"I want to express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to every single community member who stood with me and worked closely with our teams from SAPS, Law Enforcement, and Metro Police during this incredibly painful and difficult time.
"Through unity, vigilance, and cooperation, I can confirm that the suspect sought in the murder of Shireena Birch has handed himself over to the police. He will be formally charged later this afternoon and is expected to make his first court appearance tomorrow.
Cape Argus has since reached out to her family and await their response in his tragic time.
Sumaya Taliep, PR councillor who advocates for the rights of women and children also called for justice: " We refuse to accept this as our "normal." We must break the silence, dismantle the cycle of abuse, and ensure that our homes are no longer crime scenes."
Siya Monakali of Ilitha labantu condemned the murder.
"The killing of Shireena Birch is not an isolated incident, but part of a broader gender-based violence crisis that continues to claim the lives of women across South Africa.
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