Police probe murder of two women in Mpumalanga

Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt for suspects following the discovery of two women found dead in a house in Kamagugu, Nelspruit, in an incident that has renewed focus on the persistent killing of women in South Africa.

The bodies were discovered on 16 December 2025, after neighbours became concerned by a foul smell coming from the house and their inability to reach the occupants by phone. Police were alerted and responded to the scene.

According to police, the house was locked and there were no immediate signs of forced entry. Mbombela Disaster Management was called to assist with unlocking the door. Once inside, officers discovered two lifeless bodies. The house appeared to have been ransacked.

The first victim was identified by family members as Eunice Mahlodi, aged 64. Her body was found partially undressed. The second victim, Eugenia Dineo Masuku, aged 20, was found in a bedroom. Police reported that her hands were tied with cables and a cable was found around her neck, leading investigators to suspect strangulation. Bloodstains were also observed in the bedroom. It is suspected that items including cell phones may have been stolen.

Emergency medical services certified both women dead at the scene. Police said the bodies were in the early stages of decomposition.

Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said a case of two counts of murder has been opened.

“Police are appealing to members of the public for any information that may assist in the apprehension of the perpetrator or perpetrators. A case of two counts of murder has been opened and a team of experts has been established to investigate this incident,” said Ndubane.

Ndubane said a 72 hour plan has been activated under the leadership of the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi.

“All information received will be treated as confidential and members of the public may choose to remain anonymous,” Ndubane said.

The killings come amid continued national concern over violence against women. Recent South African Police Service crime statistics show that hundreds of women are murdered each year, with many more subjected to attempted murder, assault and sexual offences. The data indicates that women remain disproportionately affected by violent crime, often in their homes and communities.

The discovery of the two women’s bodies follows the conclusion of the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December. The campaign is aimed at raising awareness about gender based violence and mobilising action to protect women and children.

Despite the campaign, incidents of violence against women continue to be reported across the country. Authorities have repeatedly called on communities to work with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activity and sharing information that could prevent further attacks.

Police have urged anyone with information related to the Nelspruit murders to contact Detective Sergeant Debra Matukane on 076 354 9612, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or submit information through the MYSAPSAPP.

Investigations into the deaths of Mahlodi and Masuku are continuing.