Potch LGBTI murder victim stabbed 39 times

The ferocity of the murder of LGBTI music student Bobby Motlatla in Potchefstroom has come to light, as activists call for the community to assist in finding his killer or killers.

The body of the 35-year-old was discovered in his flat on the 10th of November, but police believe that he was killed four days earlier.

Mambaonline has learned that Motlatla was shockingly stabbed 39 times in his chest and back with a sharp object. According to a source, he was found naked on his bed.

There is suspicion that he may have been sexually assaulted or raped.

There was no forced entry into the flat and Motlatla’s keys, main gate remote control, cell phone and watch were stolen.

It is not yet known if the murder was a hate crime related to his sexuality.

LGBTI groups, under the Love Not Hate campaign banner, have called for members of the community in and around Potchefstroom who may have information about Motlatla’s final hours or the murder to come forward.

“Bobby and his devastated family did not deserve this cruelty. Now, we need the community’s help in making sure his killer or killers are brought to justice,” said Love Not Hate’s Lerato Phalakatshela.

“It’s vital that we don’t only rely on the authorities, but that we also step forward and fight back against violence and hatred towards members of the community. We need to stand up for our own,” he added.

Motlatla was a talented third year music student at North West University, specialising in singing. He had just passed his final exam and was planning to do his honours next year. He is survived by his mother and four siblings.

If anyone can assist with informati0n, please call Phalakatshela on 012 430 3272 or e-mail speakout@lovenothate.org.za.

The Love Not Hate campaign is a nation-wide multi-partner initiative addressing violence against LGBTI people. It provides a coordinated response to hate crimes, including assisting LGBTI victims to report incidents of violence and to navigate the justice system, as well as tracking hate crime cases.