Justice sought for Onalenna: Murder Case Back in Court

Rustenburg – The community continues to reel in shock following the brutal murder of North-West University (NWU) Mahikeng student, Onalenna Selebogo (21).

Onalenna was found dead in a central Rustenburg flat, in Tuin Street, on 3 August 2025, her body wrapped in sheets after she had been stabbed multiple times in the neck. The accused — believed to be the woman’s boyfriend — Walter Tshehlo (29), fled the scene but later handed himself over to police. He now faces a murder charge. 

Tshehlo appeared briefly in the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court this week for a bail application. The case was postponed until Friday, 22 August 2025, when the court will hear bail information after confirming his address.

According to Sivenathi Gunya, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) North West, this case highlights the urgent need to address gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide in South Africa.

Organisations such as the End GBVF Collective and Women for Change South Africa have voiced concerns over the growing number of GBV cases, calling for collective action to protect women and support survivors.

The Rustenburg community has expressed deep sadness and anger over the tragedy, with many describing Onalenna as a bright young woman whose future was stolen too soon.

SAPS urges anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact captain Elizabeth Tieties on 082 772 9468 or visit the Rustenburg Police Station.

Gone too soon – Onalenna Selebogo (21), a NWU student, was brutally killed in Rustenburg earlier this month. (Instagram photo)