(MDN, CONVERSEER) – The Aubrey Tau Foundation has donated R250,000 to the families of two young cousins brutally murdered in Mamelodi East, describing the gesture as both an act of compassion and a call for justice.
The donation was initially offered as a reward for information leading to the arrest of the killers, but following the swift apprehension of 38-year-old Tebogo Mnisi, the foundation redirected the funds to assist the grieving families.
Foundation founder Aubrey Tau said they could not stand by in the face of such tragedy. “The money can’t bring them back, but it can comfort the families and remind them that the nation stands with them,” he said.
The victims, Tshiamo Moramaga (22) and Baleseng Moramaga (21), were cousins described as inseparable and full of promise. Tshiamo was studying beauty therapy, while Baleseng was pursuing a Bachelor of Education degree at Unisa. Both were found shot dead on Sompisi Street in Mamelodi East on October 26.
Mnisi, who was reportedly in a relationship with Tshiamo, has been charged with two counts of premeditated murder, attempted murder, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
He appeared briefly in the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, abandoning his bail bid. The case has been postponed to January 2025.
READ ALSO: Mamelodi East Double Murder: Suspect abandons bail
Tshiamo’s mother, Itumeleng Moramaga, expressed deep pain at the loss of her only daughter. “I’m shattered. The pain I’m feeling, I can’t even wish on my enemy. We want justice for them,” she said.
The Ministry in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities welcomed the arrest, condemning the “senseless act of violence” and calling for swift justice.
As the Mamelodi community mourns, the foundation’s gesture stands as a symbol of solidarity in a nation still grappling with the scourge of gender-based violence.
Mnisi remains in custody, with legal proceedings continuing in January 2026.
Source: MDN News
