The family of a young woman, from Osizweni in Newcastle in KwaZulu Natal, who was allegedly murdered by her ex-boyfriend, who is also a rugby player, are seeking answers. The family says they need to know why the suspect killed their sister and daughter,  years after she left him.

THE MURDER 

Ntokozo Xaba, a student from Tshwane University of  Technology (TUT) was allegedly stabbed to death by an ex high school boyfriend who wanted love back on Wednesday night. It is alleged that the ex-boyfriend who dated Xaba in high school was drinking with the young woman and two other friends at her residence at TUT in Tshwane when they left the two together. The third year student was found murdered the next day with  stab wounds on her neck.

FAMILY IN DISBELIEF 

 Xaba's sister Thobile Makhubu told ZiMoja that it was unbelievable and disgusting that her sister was murdered by a man who comes from the same area as her family. "We are still in disbelief. We were with her on Friday before she left on Sunday to go back to the TUT. No one in our family could believe when we were informed that she is no more. We are angry and we don't have words," she said. Makhubu said their father was devastated by the incident. "Our father is devastated and is unable to talk as this hurt him deeply. As much as we are grateful that the suspect is behind bars, we want answers as to why he didn't accept that it was over between them. My sister broke up with that guy a while ago because of his abusive tendencies. This thing of women dying in the hands of their loved ones must end," she said.

SUSPECT BEHIND BARS 

 Captain Mavela Masondo confirmed the incident: "The police in Hercules are investigating a case of murder following the death of a 21-year-old woman. It is reported that on 01 February 2023, the victim was drinking with friends, including her ex-boyfriend at her residence at TUT. The friends reportedly left, leaving the two together. The following morning, the victim was found dead with stab wounds on the neck. The ex-boyfriend has since been taken in for questioning by the police. Investigations continue," he said.

BLUE BULLS CONDEMN THE INCIDENT

Blue Bulls Rugby Union issued a statement on Friday regarding the suspect who plays for their team. "Owing to social media messaging, the Blue Bulls Rugby Union has been made aware of an alleged murder case involving a young rugby player who represented the Blue Bulls Country Districts during the 2022 season. Whilst we do not know all the details pertaining to the incident, we wish to reiterate that the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, its affiliates, partners and members, continue to stand in one voice, condemning all forms of gender-based violence in the strongest of terms." the team said in a statement.