By Mpho Modiba
NAMAKGALE- Ralven Ntshuxeko Shikwambana, a 24-year-old photographer from Gavaza village, was brutally attacked and killed in his room in Namakgale Zone C on Saturday, March 22, 2025.
Namakgale police are investigating a murder case following the incident, which occurred at approximately 4:30 AM. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found Shikwambana’s room door wide open, and his body lying in a pool of blood near the entrance.
Medical personnel from Maphutha Malatji hospital pronounced Shikwambana dead at the scene. An examination of the body revealed multiple stab wounds to the chest and hands.
Blood splatter inside the room suggests a struggle between the victim and his attacker(s).
Shikwambana, a self-employed photographer in Phalaborwa town, was known for his work. Notably, his expensive camera equipment was not taken from the scene.
Police have stated that a post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. The suspect(s) remain unknown, and the motive for the murder is still under investigation. The murder weapon was not found at the scene.
The South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) youth league has strongly condemned the killing. Spokesperson Katekani Mthisi expressed deep concern about the safety of young people in the Ba-Phalaborwa area. “It is unacceptable that innocent lives of young people are being cut short in such a brutal manner,” Mthisi stated.
SANCO youth league has announced plans to march from Freedom Square to the Namakgale police station on Friday to demand justice for Ntshuxeko Shikwambana.
