TWO women have been brutally murdered in separate cases.

CRIME SCENE: Mmamatipa, Limpopo Province: The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tubatse have launched a manhunt following the discovery of the body of a 33-year-old female teacher on Monday, 26 October 2026.

Police were alerted after the deceased’s colleagues at Batau High School became concerned when she failed to report for duty and could not be reached on her cellphone. 

“They reportedly went to check on her, leading to the discovery of her body at about 11:00 at her residence in Mashamothane 2,  Mmamatipa.

“She was found with her hands tied behind her back with cable ties, and her body was in a state of decomposition,” said SAPS.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is requested to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Mpho Mogale, on 076 814 6522, the nearest police station, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Alternatively, information can be shared through the MySAPS-App.

CRIME SCENE: Ficksburg, Free State: The police here have arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with the murder of a 49-year-old woman.

It is alleged that on Sunday, 25 October 2026, at approximately 08:00, the body of Mophinia Molise was discovered lying in a yard near a house in Zone 2, Meqheleng, near Ficksburg. The body was covered with a yellow blanket, and the deceased had sustained a severe open wound to the throat. Her husband and son identified her at the scene.

According to the husband, he woke up at approximately 08:00 on Sunday morning and went outside to look for his wife, whom he had last seen at a local tavern on Saturday night. He allegedly discovered her lying motionless in his yard.

The husband further alleged that he had approached his wife while she was sitting with friends at the tavern and asked her to leave with him because he was intoxicated. However, she reportedly refused, and he left her in the company of her friends.

Following preliminary investigations, the police arrested the 22-year-old suspect on Sunday evening. A post-mortem examination was conducted and confirmed sexual assault. A case of rape and murder is being investigated.

SAPS appealed to community members to allow the law to take its course and refrain from taking the law into their own hands. The community is also encouraged to support the family and victims of gender-based violence by attending court proceedings peacefully and allowing the justice system to do its work.