BONTAS MAN VAS - Suspect hands himself over to the police after allegedly stabbing activist to death

A BONTEHEUWEL man handed himself over to police yesterday after allegedly stabbing a local community worker to death.

According to reports, Shireena Birch was stabbed to death at about 3.15pm on Tuesday at a premises in Assegaai Avenue, Bonteheuwel. 

She was rushed to the hospital, but sadly succumbed to her injuries.

Local ward Councillor Angus McKenzie said that upon receiving the news, he was deeply disturbed by the violent murder.

In a Facebook post on Tuesday, he addressed the suspect, saying: “My advice to him is simple, hand yourself over. Every moment you delay only deepens the consequences that await you.”

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said that the circumstances surrounding the stabbing incident are under investigation.

Van Wyk reported: “The victim sustained stab wounds to the head and the back of her shoulder. Bishop Lavis police registered a murder case for investigation.

“According to reports, [SAPS] members received a complaint of a person who was stabbed and declared deceased at a local hospital.

“On their arrival, they were shown the body of the deceased, who was declared dead on arrival. 

“The motive for this stabbing incident is yet to be determined.”

Nearly 24 hours after the fatal stabbing, McKenzie confirmed that a suspect had handed himself over to police following calls for his arrest.

He said: “Through unity, vigilance, and cooperation, I can thankfully confirm that the suspect sought in the murder of Shireena Birch has handed himself over to the police.

“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.

“Shireena’s murder must serve as a clarion call to every woman: Your smile, your strength, your joy, and your passion should never be used to mask pain, fear, or trauma.

“You are not weak for speaking out. You are not alone in asking for help. And your life is worth more than silence.”

Van Wyk confirmed the arrest.

He said: “Be advised that an adult male was arrested earlier today [Wednesday, 4 February] for a charge of murder. He is due to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrate’s Court once charged.”

McKenzie described Birch as an incredible woman, who he worked alongside towards making the community a better and safer place

He added: “She was present, committed, and deeply passionate about her community.

“And yet, despite knowing her, despite working alongside her, I did not know the extent of the abuse, the assault, the pain, and the trauma that Shireena endured daily at the hands of the man who was meant to protect her, her husband.”

Anyone with information about this fatal incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.