Glenda Roberts, who served at the Lejweleputswa district office, was reportedly assaulted and killed by three men during an attempted mugging in Hospital Park, Odendaalsrus, while on her way to work on Monday (24/11). Her death has sent shockwaves through the department, community, and the broader social service sector.

Community members have provided conflicting accounts of what happened, leaving the family in distress and calling for clarity, said Free State social development spokesperson Thembile Nqabeni. 

Uncertainty

“The Roberts family has expressed uncertainty regarding the exact circumstances surrounding their daughter’s death, as different community members have provided varying accounts of what may have happened.

“The department shares the family’s concern and strongly encourages the police to thoroughly investigate all individuals who have given conflicting information, as these accounts may hold critical leads that could assist in identifying and arresting the perpetrators,” said Nqabeni.

National disaster management centre head Dr Bongani Elias Sithole recently classified gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) as a national disaster after the centre evaluated the persistent and immediate life-safety risks posed by ongoing acts of violence and concluded that GBVF now meets the threshold of a potential disaster as defined in the act.

The incident comes at a time when the country is also fighting the scourge of violence against children and women. 

“This devastating act of violence has left us as the department, her colleagues, her family, friends, loves ones and the broader social service community in profound grief. It is so unfortunate, that this incident took place on the week were the department launched the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign.”

Free State social development MEC Mathabo Hlalele expressed deep sorrow and outrage at the continued violence targeting women. “The senseless killing of Roberts stands as a painful reminder of the urgent need to strengthen efforts against gender-based violence and all forms of crime that continue to rob communities of dedicated public servants and loved ones.

“Her death underscores the importance of collective action in creating safer environments for women, children, and all vulnerable groups.”

On Wednesday, Hlalele visited the Roberts family in Odendaalsrus to convey her condolences and provide psycho-social support as they navigate their grief.

“Roberts was a committed, compassionate, and hardworking professional who dedicated her career to serving vulnerable individuals and communities,” she said. 

“Her unwavering passion for social justice and her commitment to uplifting others will forever be remembered.”

“The department stands with the family in this difficult time and shares in their sorrow. We trust the memories of her dedication and compassion will bring strength and comfort.”

Nqabeni reiterated the department’s condemnation of the attack and urged law enforcement to act decisively.

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 OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg