Gqeberha 13 August 2023: While police do make inroads in arresting perpetrators of violence against women and children, there is still a dark reality and concern that violence against women persists behind closed doors, leaving many individuals trapped in cycle of pain, fear and despair.
As women commemorated Women’s Day on 9 August 2023, SAPS Algoa Park detectives arrested a 26-year-old male for the murder of his fiancé which took place in January 2021. It is alleged that on 24 January 2021 at about 22:00, Earl Billet alleged that he received a message from his girlfriend, Janine Brazella Nazzle, aged 28 years old that he should take care of their child. Billet further alleged that he rushed home to their flat in Silveroak Street and found Ms Nazzle hanging from the door frame.
Initially, an inquest docket was opened, and the investigation was continuing. However, due to the meticulous investigation, police succeeded in closing any suspicions and discrepancies in the case and the case of inquest was changed to murder which led to the subsequent arrest of Billet.
He appeared in the New Brighton magistrate court and was released on R2000 bail. The case is remanded to later this month.
In another unrelated case, on Saturday 12 August 2023 at about 20:30, the body of a woman (age not known) was found lying in a pool of blood at a house in Boekenhout Street in Algoa Park. It is alleged that police were alerted after a concerned friend informed them that the deceased could be in danger. When police arrived at the house, entry was breached by breaking the door. The victim was found on the floor with multiple stab wounds. A male, age unknown was found hanging in the bathroom.
An inquest and murder case were opened for further investigation. Police are urging victims of abuse to reach out for help as soon as possible. Support and professional help are available to provide assistance and guidance. Communities need to play their part in also notifying the necessary authorities if ‘you or someone you know is experiencing abuse , reaching out to a trusted person or a helpline can provide the necessary support. Reporting any signs of abuse can help prevent further harm and ensure that appropriate action is taken.’