An unidentified woman, believed to be in her 30s, was found dead in bushes along Owen Ellis Drive in Port Edward on August 29.
The woman’s body was discovered a short distance from the pavement, opposite the Gracelands Complex and shortly before the GP Security premises.
Port Edward police have opened cases of murder and rape.
KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said it is alleged that the woman may have been raped before being strangled to death.
The woman was reportedly wearing a white top and brown pants when she was found.
The discovery has renewed concerns about crime and drug-related activity in Port Edward.
Darius Fourie, chairperson of the Palm Beach Neighbourhood Watch, said drugs were “totally out of control” in the Port Edward CBD.
He said the town was also facing a growing problem of homelessness and crime.
“About a month ago, I had two staff members robbed of their groceries on a Friday and Saturday. It’s become a huge concern for residents as every day we are faced with muggings and robbery,” said Fourie.
He called on police and law enforcement agencies to step in and address the situation, saying residents were increasingly concerned about their safety.
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