SAPS Arrest for Missing UCT Student, Commended

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, commends the SAPS on their investigation into the disappearance of the 19-year-old University of Cape Town student, Uyinene Mrwetyana, which has led to the arrest of a 42-year-old man. Minister Fritz has further condemned the prevalence of gender based violence, calling on residents to report it.

Uyinene went missing on Saturday 24 August 2019 and a missing person’s case was opened on Monday 26 August 2019.

Minister Fritz said, “I commend that SAPS who have been hard work, together with the Western Cape Flying Squad members, pursuing this investigation. Together, they arrested a 42-year-old suspect in Claremont. I further wish to commend the good citizens of this province who have participated in her search through leafletting and using the hashtag #BringNeneHome on social media.”

“The arrested person is expected to appear in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Monday 2 September 2019. I have been informed that an extensive investigation is currently underway which includes the interviewing of the 42-year-old. DNA tests and an autopsy are expected to be performed on an unidentified body found in Lingelethu West, Khayelitsha, on Monday 26 August 2019. I hope that the finalisation of this investigation will bring peace of mind to Uyinene’s family and friends. My thoughts are with her family during this period of uncertainty”, said Minister Fritz.

Minister Fritz further added, “The prevalence of gender based violence in our society is of grave concern. We cannot tolerate violence, harm or abuse of women in any shape or form. It is abhorrent that the women of our province and country fear the act of simply walking in the street or returning home to an abusive partner. As a society, we must work to address this societal ill wherever it rears its ugly head by reporting gender based violence or supporting nearby women’s shelters. As a society, we must embark on a 365 day campaign to put an immediate end violence.”

Under the leadership of Minister Albert Fritz, the Department of Community Safety will continue to pursue every tool at its disposal to support SAPS in their investigations and safeguard the women of our province.