Two men arrested after 19-year-old Bonolo Rabe’s decomposed body found in Eastern Cape

A 10-day search for 19-year-old Bonolo Rabe ended in tragedy after police discovered her decomposed body at a house in Dukathole and arrested two men in connection with her death.

Discovery and arrests

Police in the Eastern Cape found the body at a house in Dukathole “at approximately 6am on Tuesday,” police spokesperson Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa said. The scene was secured and relevant police units and emergency services were summoned.

Detectives followed up on information and gathered evidence as the investigation progressed, leading to the arrest of two suspects, aged 20 and 27. The men are expected to appear before the Maletswai Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, facing charges of murder.

Search, family response and investigation

Bonolo had disappeared in Aliwal North on September 6, prompting a search involving family, community members, churches, police and people on social media. The discovery brought an agonising end to the search.

Her brother, Ntobeko Rabe, thanked those who assisted and supported the family during the search.

“As Bonolo’s family, we sincerely thank the social media community, the community at large, SAPS, churches, and all individuals and organisations who assisted in the search and supported us during this difficult time,” he said.

The family confirmed Bonolo’s body had been found and asked the public to allow police detectives to continue their work and to respect the family’s privacy. In a statement the family said:

“We sadly confirm that Bonolo’s body has been found. We would ask everyone to give space and respect to SAPS, including the detectives, to do their diligent work in this investigation,” Rabe said.

Vulnerability and community reaction

Public appeals during the search had emphasised that Bonolo was a vulnerable person who required support; her family had appealed for assistance while she was missing.

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Vuyisile Ncata commended detectives for their investigative work and, through Mawisa, thanked community members whose information assisted the investigation. Mawisa said the arrests “demonstrate our commitment to pursuing those responsible and ensuring that they face the full might of the law.”

SAPS management extended its condolences to Bonolo’s family and said police would ensure that justice was served.

What happens next

Detectives continue preliminary investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding Bonolo’s disappearance and death.