CAPE TOWN – A Masiphumelele family and the wider Deep South community are mourning the tragic loss of 15-year-old Luve Bukwana, whose body was discovered at Fish Hoek Beach last week following an extensive search.
According to police, Luve, who lived on Ntantiso Road in Masiphumelele, was reported missing on Monday 17 March at approximately 23:50, said police spokesperson, Capt FC van Wyk.
The case was transferred to Muizenberg Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for further investigation.
Shortly thereafter, a widespread search ensued involving family members and friends was carried out for Luve.
“Enquiries were done in Ocean View, Masiphumelele and Noordhoek. The area was patrolled along with Family members and victim’s friends was contacted with no success. Members attached to FCS Muizenberg, Ocean View Saps, Masiphumelele Community Members, neighbourhood watch and Pink Ladies were all searching for him,” van Wyk said.
Sadly, two days later, Luve’s body was found at Fish Hoek Beach in the water.
“His body was removed by the SAPS Diving Unit. An inquest was registered at Fish Hoek Saps,” he said.
The matter is still under investigation.
Police could not confirm the cause of the death.
Luve was also a former learner at Simon’s Town School.
He was in Grade 10.
The school recently posted a heartfelt tribute on their Facebook page to share their condolences with the family.
“The loss of a student is a tragedy that affects our entire school community. Our hearts and thoughts are with Luve’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. We extend our deepest sympathy to the family, friends, classmates, and staff affected by this loss,” read the school’s post.
To help raise funds to cover the funeral costs, an animal rights activist group, the Cape Peninsula Civil Conservation (CPCC), announced that they have organised a fundraiser to cover the costs on their Facebook page.
Luve’s father, Mpindezelo, assisted CPCC for more than 20 years as their longest serving ranger baboon ranger ever.
The activists said they were shattered to hear the tragic news of Bukwana’s death.
“A series of strokes left Bukwana senior with great difficulty walking, using one arm and great difficulty talking and communicating. His wife cares for him. The load on the family has been heavy without any adults able to earn and also it’s just a lot to deal with practically and emotionally. To support the family we have opened a collection to help cover funeral costs and transport to the Eastern Cape,” read the post.
For more information email at info@cpcc.org.za.
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