Woman’s body found hidden in pit toilet at Ha-Lambani Mahagala, police open murder case

Police have opened a murder investigation after the body of a 40-year-old woman was discovered hidden inside a pit toilet at her home in Ha-Lambani Mahagala.

Discovery and emergency response

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the body was found at about 11:40 on Sunday, concealed in the pit toilet and covered with a blanket. Family members alerted the community, and both police and Emergency Medical Services personnel were summoned to the scene, where the body was retrieved from the pit toilet.

Preliminary findings and investigation

Preliminary investigations indicated the deceased had sustained injuries to the face and head. Detectives subsequently proceeded to the home of a suspect, but he was not found. A case of murder has been opened, and efforts to trace and apprehend the suspect are underway, Ledwaba said.

How the public can help

Police have asked anyone with information to contact investigating officer Sergeant Thuso Nengovhela on 061 446 3487, or to report information to the nearest police station. Alternatives include the Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the MySAPS App. The police investigations are continuing.

Related policing update

Separately, Ledwaba said police detectives in the Phalaborwa Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit arrested a 16-year-old suspect on 18 July 2026 in connection with alleged rape of two siblings, a 12-year-old girl and an 8-year-old boy. It is alleged those incidents occurred on 15 July 2026 at about 9pm at their residence in the Namakgale area. The suspect is expected to appear before the Children’s Justice Court in the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court on 20 July 2026.