Action Society today achieved a breakthrough in the stalled investigation into the murder of Nonkululeko Gabriella (Gaby) Luenza Ndaba, following an unplanned but constructive engagement with the Dawn Park Police Station commander.
The organisation had planned to erect a poster of Gaby outside the police station to draw public attention to the ongoing delays in her case. However, upon arrival, Action Society representatives were invited to meet directly with the station commander, resulting in immediate and positive steps toward accountability.
During the meeting, the station commander removed the current investigating officer from the case and appointed a new lead investigator. The commander also committed to providing an update on the case within two weeks.
“This is a major step in the right direction,” said Juanita du Preez, spokesperson for Action Society. “For far too long, Gaby’s family has been left without answers or progress. Today’s outcome proves that public pressure and persistent advocacy can compel the system to act.”
Despite this progress, Action Society remains concerned about the serious procedural failures that characterised the initial investigation. The organisation has therefore escalated the matter to Parliament, addressing a formal letter to Mr Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, requesting a formal enquiry into SAPS’s handling of the case.
The letter highlights repeated failures by police, including:
- A complete lack of action after the family reported Gaby missing;
- The failure to secure and process the crime scene properly;
- Mishandling of critical forensic evidence, including Gaby’s cellphone; and
- Failure to take statements from key witnesses.
“This case exemplifies the systemic dysfunction within SAPS,” Du Preez added. “Victims’ families are too often forced to investigate their own tragedies because of negligence and indifference from those meant to protect them. Gaby’s family deserves justice – and Action Society will not stop until it is served.”
The organisation has called for the case to be transferred to the Hawks and for SAPS officials from Dawn Park and the Gauteng Provincial Office to be summoned to account before Parliament.
“Today’s developments bring renewed hope,” Du Preez said. “But hope alone is not enough. We will keep the pressure on until those responsible for Gaby’s death – and those responsible for failing her – are held to account.”
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