South Africa's most respected investigative journalists, Shadi Rapitso is no more. She was held hostage and allegedly killed by her neighbour, who couldn't accept the fact she did not want to be romantically involved with him.
Rapitso was one of South Africa's top TV-journalists, working for the investigative journalism programme 3rd degree.
Local media reported how the man allegedly came to Rapitso's house about three days ago, disclosing the feelings he had for her. "If she didn't take him as her lover, he would kill himself,"
The Cape Times reported.
On Friday morning, just when the 29-year old journalist was about to leave her flat, the man, who is believed to be an employee of South Africa's Broadcasting Company (SABC), managed to kidnap her. After taking her to his place and holding her hostage for awhile, police say he stabbed her in the neck. He then stabbed himself in the chest.
The lifeless body of Rapitso was later found lying in the bathroom. The attacker, who could not be named, survived and is currently in hospital, under supervision of police. He is due to appear in court on Monday.
