LIMPOPO – The Thohoyandou police have opened a murder case after the body of a young woman, believed to be between 19 and 21, was found floating in Muledane River yesterday afternoon (September 20).

The Limpopo police responded to a complaint in the Mvudi Park area, after which SAPS divers retrieved the body, which had reportedly been in the water for some time.

You might also want to read: Elderly woman (77) murdered in Thohoyandou

The police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the victim was found naked, with her hands and legs fastened.

“A 5kg mealie bag filled with stones had been tied to her legs, and investigators noted further injuries, including cuts on both feet and the removal of some body parts. The body has since been taken to forensic pathology services for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death,” his statement read.

The provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe expressed outrage at the brutality of the crime and instructed detectives to prioritise the case to ensure the suspects are brought to justice.

“We appeal to the public for assistance in identifying the deceased and tracing the perpetrators. Anyone with information is urged to contact Thohoyandou SAPS or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the MySAPS App,” Mashaba’s statement read.