Cape Town – SA Rugby has expressed sorrow over the passing of a 20-year-old Walter Sisulu University student amidst the Springboks’ tour commemorating their World Cup victory.
Noqhamka, died allegedly after being struck by a police Nyala (a 4×4 armoured personnel carrier) during the Springboks’ victory parade in East London celebrating their Rugby World Cup triumph.
The incident, according to News24, occurred when public order police were trying to move the Springbok captain, Siya Kolisi, and his team out of the hall’s gates on November 5.
She was reportedly hit on her legs by a police nyala, resulting in the amputation of her left leg, Times Live reported.
Noqhamka’s family is devastated, and they are still grappling with the tragic incident.
“It’s very sad for us as a family. We are still trying to come to terms with this,” the report quoted her father Sithembiso as saying.
Noqhamka died in Frere Hospital’s ICU, leading to SA Rugby expressing deep sadness and extending condolences to her family, reported The Citizen.
The incident marred what was supposed to be a joyous celebration of South Africa’s Rugby World Cup victory.
“SA Rugby is deeply saddened by news of a tragic incident during the festivities celebrating South Africa’s 2023 Rugby World Cup victory tour.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to Minentle Noqhamka’s family and friends after her life was so abruptly cut short by this terrible accident. The trophy tour celebration was to share the joy of success and victory to have it end in sorrow for this family is awful. We share the family’s grief,” the report quoted SA Rugby President Mark Alexander as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
