The Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has confirmed that the female student killed in an incident of gender-based violence (GBV) in Colesberg, in the Northern Cape, was enrolled at the institute.

The victim, Bunono Alulutho Buba (19), sustained stab wounds to her neck and abdomen.

Seithati Semenokane, spokesperson for the university, says the victim was pursuing a Bachelor of Education (SPFET) in Economic Management Sciences (ECO Management) degree. The deceased hails from Colesberg, 240km from Bloemfontein.

“It is indeed regrettable that the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) is sporadically stifling humanity and the existence of our beloved sisters and mothers of our land. This endemic is leaving society, the family, and friends broken and traumatised given that the loss of one too many remains a loss to the nation. We call upon our students and staff to put the family of the deceased student in our prayers during these trying times, says Dr Bernard Sebake, Dean of Students at the CUT.

We also urge our students, staff, and communities in Colesberg to put faith in law enforcement and cooperate in affording Buba and her family much-needed justice.”

Dr Bernard Sebake, Dean of Students

A breakthrough in Buba’s case came with the arrest of the alleged perpetrator Siphosovuyo Yabo (21). He appeared briefly in the Colesberg Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 9 June, facing a charge of murder.

Lt Col Sergio Kock, spokesperson for the police in the Northern Cape, said he was arrested on Thursday, 5 June, as a prime suspect. The suspect is remanded in custody and set to reappear in the same court on 19 June while the police continues investigating.

Shocked members of the public took to social media, expressing fury with messages accompanying the victim’s photo.

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    Vista E-edition 10 July 2025