A manhunt by the SAPS has been initiated for Thulani Mathousand Sikhundla as they believe he can provide ‘crucial assistance’ in their investigation into the murder of two females.

The victims, a mother and daughter, aged 23 and 40, were murdered in Matsulu near Mbombela, in the early hours of yesterday.

Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the provincial police spokesperson, states it is suspected the assailant visited the family while they were watching TV on Monday night. Subsequently, while the son went to bed, other family members and the suspect continued watching TV. The son was awakened by his mother’s screams for help and upon entering the room, witnessed the suspect wielding a knife. The son promptly sought assistance from neighbours.

Upon the return of the son and neighbours to the home, it was discovered the suspect had fled through a window. The mother and daughter were found with multiple stab wounds, lying in a pool of blood, and police and medical personnel declared them dead on the scene.

Mdhluli confirms a case has been opened on two counts of murder and investigations are ongoing with the aim of apprehending the suspect.

He urges anyone with information regarding Sikhundla’s whereabouts to contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or to submit information via the MySAPS app. All information received will be treated confidentially and callers may choose to remain anonymous.