Community Grieves Tragic Loss of Deveney Nel

The Caledon community is coming together in sadness over the tragic death of 16-year-old Deveney Nel. She was found dead in a storeroom at Hoërskool Overberg last week after her mother reported her missing.

Deveney was last seen at school after taking part in a sports day event where she was on the first aid team. When she didn’t return home to Grabouw, her mom reported her missing, leading to the discovery of her body by a search party.

Police have since transferred the case to their serious and violent crimes unit. While investigations are ongoing, no suspects have been identified or arrested yet.

The school had to close for a few days to allow for police investigations but reopened on Monday. The school’s governing body expressed their deep condolences to the Nel family and noted that they are ramping up security and providing support for students affected by this tragedy.

Mary Liebenberg, the mayor of Theewaterskloof municipality, is calling on police to give this case high priority. “This senseless act is a stark reminder that the fight for the safety and dignity of women and girls is far from over,” she said.

Community members have also spoken out, expressing their condolences and calling for improved security measures in schools. Some have suggested that schools should have security cameras and personnel to protect students better.

In a moving gesture, Overberg High School encouraged community members to honor Deveney’s life by bringing flowers to the school. This act of remembrance aims to celebrate her life amid the ongoing tragedy.