ON THE RUN: Bontas man flees after allegedly killing his wife in brutal stabbing

A BONTEHEUWEL man is on the run after his wife was brutally stabbed to death in broad daylight, leaving the community reeling and cops scrambling to track him down.

According to reports, Shireena Birch was allegedly stabbed by her husband at about 15:15 on Thursday at a premises in Assegaai Avenue, Bonteheuwel.

Ward Councillor Angus McKenzie said that upon receiving the news, he was deeply disturbed and angered by the violent murder.

McKenzie stated: “A woman has tragically lost her life after being brutally stabbed. She was rushed to the hospital but sadly succumbed to her injuries.

“The suspect is her husband, who is currently on the run.”

He added that she was an incredible vrou who he knew well and who visited his office on several occasions, working to make the community a better and safer place.

He says: “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.”

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, the 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.”

McKenzie further appealed to cops and law enforcement officers to search for the suspect and to leave no stone unturned.

He says: “I will be at the forefront of ensuring that when the perpetrator of this horrendous crime is brought before the courts, bail is never, ever an option.

“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 inflicted by your own partner.

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

“My advice to him is simple: Hand yourself over. Every moment you delay only deepens the consequences that await you.”

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