The suspect in the brutal killing of woman from Bonteheuwel on Tuesday handed himself over to the police earlier today.
Shireena Birch was stabbed in the head and shoulder and was declared dead at a local hospital.
Gratitude
Angus McKenzie, local ward councillor who worked closely with Birch in the community, welcomed the new delevopments. “I want to express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to every single community member who stood with me and worked closely with our teams from the police, Law Enforcement, and Metro Police during this incredibly painful and difficult time. Through unity, vigilance, and cooperation, I can thankfully confirm that the suspect sought in the murder of Sherina Birch has handed himself over to the police. He will be formally charged later this afternoon and is expected to make his first court appearance tomorrow.
“Let me be absolutely clear we will do everything in our power and formally petition the court to ensure that no bail is granted. Justice must be served, and the safety of our community remains our top priority. This outcome was only possible because of a community that refuses to be silent, that chooses to stand together, and that believes in protecting one another. Once again, thank you to everyone who played their part and worked with me to ensure this result. We remain committed to justice. We remain committed to accountability. And we remain committed to our community,” said McKenzie.
Earlier
In an earlier statement McKenzie said Birch’s name is not spoken. “She visited my office on numerous occasions and was a partner of mine in the work of making Bonteheuwel a better, safer place. She was present, committed and deeply passionate about her community.”
He said despite knowing Birch he did not know the extent of the abuse, assault, pain and trauma she endured daily.
Justice must be firm
“Let me be absolutely clear; I will be at the forefront of ensuring that when the perpetrator of this horrendous crime is brought before the courts bail is never, ever an option. Justice must be firm, swift and uncompromising.
“Birch’s murder must serve as a clarion call to every woman that their smile, their strength, joy, passion should never be used to mask pain, fear or trauma.. You are not weak for speaking. You are not alone for asking for help. And your life is worth more than silence.”
Online supporters spoke fondly of Birch. “Shireen was a mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, a pillar of strength. She spent her life building our community up, only to have her own life stolen by the very person meant to protect her.”
The police’s Captain FC van Wyk confirmed to TygerBurger a suspect was in custody. “Be advised that a man was arrested earlier today (Wednesday, 4 February4) on a charge of murder. He is due to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates court once charged,” he says.
