Murder Suspect Appears in Cacadu Court After Arrest in Lessyton

A 39-year-old murder suspect appeared before the Cacadu Magistrate’s Court on Friday following his arrest earlier this week in Lessyton.

According to a media statement issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in the Eastern Cape, the suspect was arrested on 25 February 2026 during a joint operation by Ezibeleni and Komani detectives. He was reportedly found hiding in an abandoned house in Lessyton.

Alleged Incident in Zakhele Location

Police allege that on 21 February 2026, the 32-year-old deceased woman was socialising with five friends at a house in Ndzina Street, Zakhele Location, Cacadu. The group reportedly consisted of three males and three females.

Authorities further allege that it was the first time the suspect had met the deceased. Reports indicate that the suspect and the deceased began a romantic relationship on the same day.

In the early hours of 22 February, the three couples allegedly went to sleep in separate rooms. At approximately 07:30 that morning, the other two couples reportedly woke up and discovered that the male suspect was no longer in the house. The 32-year-old woman was found in the room with multiple injuries to her upper body.

Police said the suspect’s cellphone was switched off and his whereabouts were unknown at the time. The matter was reported to police, and a murder case was opened.

Arrest After Community Assistance

Police initiated a search for the suspect, which led to his arrest three days later. Authorities stated that the arrest was made with assistance from members of the community.

It has also been reported that the same suspect has another pending murder case dating back to November 2024, which is still awaiting trial.

Court Proceedings

The accused, identified in court as Mfundo Ntamehlo (39), appeared before the Cacadu Magistrate’s Court on 27 February 2026 on a charge of murder.

He was remanded in custody and is expected to reappear in court on 10 March 2026 for a formal bail application.

Police Condemn GBVF

District Commissioner Major General Rudolph Adolph condemned the killing, describing it as senseless and contributing to the escalation of gender-based violence and femicide, which remains a serious concern both nationally and globally.

He expressed hope that the justice system would impose an appropriate sentence should the accused be convicted.