Zuma had also visited the site where Courtney’s body was discovered, and promised the community that harsher measures will be taken against criminals targeting women and children.
He donated a house to the family, sponsored by his foundation, and also handed over a personal donation of R10 000 to the family.
Newly appointed Police Minister, Fikile Mbalula, said South African society is “sick” due to the high number of murders taking place on a daily basis.
Speaking at Courtney’s memorial service on Thursday evening,
Mbalula promised to improve
policing in the Elsies River area.
“The person doing this to your child could be your uncle, your friend your brother. We are a sick society, ons is baie siek,” he said.
Addressing about 1000 people present at the Elsies River Hall in Halt Road, the minister said to loud cheers: “I want to say to you, the people of Elsies River, the police
station in Elsies River will never be the same again.”
Zuma has criticised police’s response to Courtney’s disappearance, and promised the family he would be addressing the issue.
“I am shocked and horrified that this has happened and will speak to Minister Mbalula so we can have this investigated and prevent this kind of person from ever taking our children,” said Zuma.
“This man was known to this child and the family. He entered their home and took their baby. It should never happen again.”
PROMISES: Zuma and Juanita