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“Oscar specifically requested the memorial service as he continues to grieve and remains in deep mourning for the loss of his partner Reeva (Steenkamp),” a statement said.

Reeva Steenkamp

Pistorius is charged with intentionally shooting dead Steenkamp, 29, at his house in Pretoria on Valentine’s Day. Steenkamp, a model and law graduate, was cremated in her hometown, the southern city Port Elizabeth, last Tuesday — the first day of Pistorius’ bail hearing.

“Since it is such a sensitive issue, Oscar has asked for a private service with people who share his loss, including his family members who knew and loved Reeva as one of their own,” the statement said.

Steenkamp family hires lawyers
The family of Reeva Steenkamp said they have hired attorney Mike Venter and advocate Dup de Bruyn “to look after and protect our interests” amid a media frenzy over her death linked to her boyfriend Oscar Pistorius.

“We fully understand the intense media interest. For the time being there will be no interviews or discussions with the media. We request the media to respect our privacy," the family said in a statement.