Good Samaritans help destitute family of murdered girl

East Londoners have come to the aid of the destitute family of eight-year-old Lihlumo Mzini, who was found slain in the Dorchester Heights informal settlement on Tuesday.

Lihlumo had been missing since last week, during which time the police and local community had launched a frantic search. Amid the furore, her mother was arrested after being accused of negligence.

The missing child’s story was posted on social media and shared 328 times.

On Wednesday, two East London businessmen said they would assist the family with funeral arrangements. Lonwabo Yiliwe of Yiliwe Funeral Suppliers said he had been approached by people on social media to help the family.

“When I was tagged in one of the posts after the girl was found murdered, that touched me and we immediately approached people who are close to the family to link us with them,” said Yiliwe.

He said they would pay for the funeral service of the little girl. “This is not the first time we have been asked to assist and we do our best. We are not doing this because we have much, but we are giving because we know how it feels not to have anything,” he said.

Taxi owner Gabs Mtshala said the tragic incident had touched him, as he was part of the community.

“We as taxi owners depend on people to generate revenue. Though I do not know the family or the little girl personally, I am sure they have contributed to the taxi industry.

I am willing to donate cold drinks and bottled water. I have asked some of my employees to do research and find out from the family what they are still in need of.”

Eastern Cape police spokesperson Sibongile Soci said the mother remained in custody but no further arrests had been made.

“We have not received any reports with regards to finding the suspect or making any arrests,” she said.

We are giving because we know how it feels not to have anything