A Gauteng mother, Chilkana Baktawer, 44, was shot dead in front of her two young daughters, aged 10 and 7, in her home in Valhalla, Centurion, last week. The suspect, Kesavan Pillay, was arrested and charged with murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
According to a close friend, Baktawer had been abused by her partner for over a decade and had recently escaped from the relationship. The friend said that Baktawer had been on the run, staying at different hotels or family homes, after her home in Laudium was petrol-bombed in January.
Abuse and Threats
The friend described Baktawer as a person with a beautiful soul, who was always willing to listen and help others. However, Baktawer’s life was marked by abuse and threats from her partner. The friend recalled an incident a few years ago where Baktawer had called her in the early morning hours, pleading for help, with a purple and black face.
As explained on the South African Police Service website, domestic violence is a serious crime that affects many people in South Africa. The website provides information on how to report domestic violence and how to get help.
Justice for Chilkana
The friend demanded justice for Baktawer and her daughters, who witnessed their mother’s killing. The friend said that Baktawer had pleaded with her killer to stop for the sake of her children, before she was shot. The case has been adjourned for further investigation.
Some of the key facts about the case include:
- Baktawer was shot dead in front of her two young daughters.
- The suspect, Kesavan Pillay, was arrested and charged with murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
- Baktawer had been abused by her partner for over a decade.
- The case has been adjourned for further investigation.
According to Captain Johan van Dyk, spokesperson for the Tshwane District SAPS, the suspect allegedly gained entry to Baktawer’s home by jumping over a fence.
