Police arrest Libode suspect in alleged murder of 29-year-old woman

Libode police have arrested a 28-year-old man from Rainy Locality, Nyandeni Admubustratuve area, for the alleged murder of his 29-year-old girlfriend, Fikiswa Madolwana.

According to the police, the incident occurred between Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Police spokesman Captain Welile Matyolo said police were alerted to the murder at about 1:00 a.m. on Saturday.

“It is alleged the suspect killed Madolwana at an unknown location and buried her in a shallow grave in a secluded area.

“After relatives noticed she was missing and contacted the suspect, he reportedly exhumed the body and transported it back to them in a wheelbarrow before police were informed,” Matyolo said.

He said a lawful confession has been obtained in which the suspect admitted to the murder and burial.

Matyolo stated that a formal pointing-out was done on Monday, April 20, before his appearance in the Libode Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder.

OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, urged communities to report missing persons without delay.

“Immediate reporting of missing persons can save many innocent lives,” he said.

In a separate case, Major General Modishana welcomed the arrest of two men, aged 43 and 49, for the alleged murder of a 57-year-old woman at Chibini locality, Ngquqha Administrative Area, Bityi.

The incident occurred on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at approximately 11:10.

Matyolo said the 43-year-old suspect, the alleged boyfriend of the deceased, and his 49-year-old male friend were the last people seen leaving a local tavern with the victim.

“Her body was later found by community members near the tavern. Preliminary investigations indicate sticks were allegedly used in the assault. The motive is still under investigation,” he said.

Major General Modishana urged Bityi detectives to ensure all those involved are apprehended so justice may prevail.