A murder case in Libode has left residents reeling after police arrested a 28-year-old man for the alleged killing of his 29-year-old girlfriend. According to Daily Voice, the man is accused of murdering the woman, burying her in a shallow grave and later returning her body to her family in a wheelbarrow.

Police spokesperson Captain Welile Matyolo said the suspect is from Rainy Locality, Nyandeni A/A, in Libode. He was arrested by Libode police in connection with the woman’s death. Police believe the incident happened between Friday, 17 April, and Saturday, 18 April 2026. Officers were informed of the murder at about 1am on Saturday morning.

Body Allegedly Buried Before Being Exhumed

Police said the woman was allegedly killed at an unknown location before her body was buried in a shallow grave in a secluded area. The case took another disturbing turn when relatives started searching for her and contacted the suspect by phone because he was reportedly the last person seen with her.

According to police, the family demanded that he bring her back. He then allegedly exhumed the body and transported it to them in a wheelbarrow before police were alerted.

Matyolo said police have obtained what he described as a lawful confession in which the suspect admitted to the murder and the burial of the victim.

Police Urge Urgent Reporting of Missing People

OR Tambo District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana has urged communities to report missing persons immediately when their whereabouts are unknown. He said early reporting allows police to begin search efforts without delay and could help save lives.

The case has again highlighted the brutal reality of gender-based violence in South Africa and the importance of acting fast when a loved one goes missing. For families, every hour matters. For police, those first moments can make the difference between rescue and tragedy.