COMMUNITY members and the family of 11-year-old Relebogile Segami are satisfied that justice has prevailed after her killer, Itumeleng Bendow Machabe, 27, was convicted of her murder and rape by the Northern Cape High Court on Wednesday.

Relebogile’s aunt and family spokesperson, Jennifer Leroux, said they were finally able to find closure.

“We are relieved, even though Relebogile’s mother is suffering from severe mental strain and is now bedridden. The emotional and physical damage caused by Relebogile’s death has taken its toll. Relebogile was her second youngest child out of five siblings,” said Leroux.

The trial spanned nearly three years, during which cases were withdrawn, struck off the roll, and later reinstated, while delays were experienced due to inconclusive DNA results,

Leroux extended her gratitude to the courts, the justice system, prosecutors and the team of investigators for ensuring the protection of the rights of the complainants.

“We are thankful to the community at large, every individual and gender-based violence advocate, for their unwavering support and solidarity in the pursuit of justice,” she added.

“We appreciate the kindness, empathy and understanding of State advocate Elmari Kruger, who handled our daughter’s case with professionalism and dedication. The investigation team was diligent in uncovering the truth and seeking justice for all the complainants.

“We are deeply grateful for the fair and just judgment rendered by the honourable court, which has finally brought closure and justice to this case.”

Community activist Herbert Miller vowed to continue advocating for victims of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), emphasising the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.

“It was an uphill battle, but thanks to the investigating team led by Sergeant Gywneth Paulsen, cybercrime experts and the prosecutors ensured that the accused, who poses a danger to society, will hopefully be locked up for a very long time,” said Miller.

Itumeleng Bendow Machabe was found guilty in the Northern Cape High Court this week. Picture: Sandi Kwon Hoo

EFF councillor Pontscho Mocwana also welcomed the court’s judgment against what he called a “serial rapist and killer.”

“The judgment enforces the rights of victims of GBVF, brutality and poor socio-economic circumstances. The gruesome rape, murder and violations of innocent children deserve multiple life sentences,” said Mocwana.

He was concerned that GBVF complainants were being subjected to further victimisation by having to wait several years for their trials to conclude.

“This proves that our courts are dealing with a conundrum of cases and at times difficulty in gathering credible and incriminating evidence to ensure a successful prosecution.

“We would, however, like to commend the work of the SAPS, social workers, and the National Prosecuting Authority in ensuring that the perpetrator faces the full might of the law.”

Mocwana also urged community members to continue rallying behind victims of GBVF.

“The overwhelming support shown for the victims and the public uproar, demonstrate how evil deeds disturb the lives of victims as well as the wider community,” he concluded.

Community members and GBFV activists who attended the judgment in the Northern Cape High Court on Wednesday. Picture: Sandi Kwon Hoo