Some of the most heinous crimes have been committed against children in Nelson Mandela Bay this week — the sort which leave families, and the community at large, reeling with grief and unanswered questions.
Promising young soccer player Micah Klaasen was assaulted and stabbed by a group of teenagers on Saturday after a five-a-side tournament in Fairview, Gqeberha.
It is believed the alleged attackers were members of an opposing soccer club.
Seven teenagers, aged between 16 and 18, have handed themselves over to the police and are facing murder charges.
This entire saga is deeply distressing and has reignited debate about the alarming levels of violence in our communities, particularly among the youth.
What could Micah possibly have done to deserve such a brutal death? There can be no justification, which is why there must be justice.
In Kariega, another heartbreaking tragedy unfolded when eight-year-old Veronique May was murdered just metres from her home.
A man known to the family has been arrested in connection with her death.
Veronique’s mother, Destiny May, is tormented by questions no parent should ever have to ask.
“What was he thinking? ... What were my child’s last words, and what did he say to her when he [allegedly] took her away?
“I just want him to tell us why, because my daughter was an innocent child,” she said through tears.
We echo the words of Bay police district commissioner Maj-Gen Vuyisile Ncata, who said: “The murder of a child is one of the most heartless crimes imaginable
“We will ensure that justice is served for this young victim and her family.”
Justice must indeed be served, in both cases.
It will not bring these children back, but it may, at the least, serve as a warning to others who might contemplate such senseless violence.
The Herald
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