“Our campus community is appalled and shocked by this senseless act and our hearts go out to the family and friends of the student who has lost her life and to the injured student. We are very relieved to hear that the SAPS has arrested suspects in connection with the hijacking. The perpetrators should be met with the full extent of the law.”
This was the message of Prof Wim de Villiers, Rector and Vice-Chancellor of Stellenbosch University (SU), on learning of the kidnapping of two Matie students over the weekend. Ms Hannah Cornelius, a BA Humanities student, was found dead on Saturday (27 May), while a male student was admitted to hospital with serious injuries.
Prof De Villiers expressed his deepest condolences with those involved and said: “Our thoughts are with the victims of this horrific crime. We wish the injured student well and we will do everything in our power to assist – also in aiding the SAPS with their investigation.”
Staff of the Division of Student Affairs were in contact with the parents on Saturday night and started to provide support to Ms Cornelius’ friends. Trauma counsellors have presented debriefing sessions at Ms Cornelius’ residence and are on standby to provide support. The University’s Crisis Service number is 082 557 0880 and students are encouraged to make use of the services provided.
The Police confirmed on Saturday afternoon that cases of murder, attempted murder and hijacking are under investigation. According to a SAPS statement the female student was found on Saturday morning at about 08:30 on the Knorhoek Road with injuries. A blue VW Citi Golf that they were driving was hijacked by three suspects. The SAPS requested that anyone who can provide further information to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
A memorial service for Cornelius will be held on Friday 2 June at 11:00, at the Dutch Reformed Church in Fish Hoek.
