Mpumalanga police have commenced with investigations following the suspicious murders of two women whose bodies were discovered this week.
Mampi Nelisiwe Shiba and Patience Mokoena, both aged 37, were identified by their families on Thursday after they were discovered on Wednesday morning.
According to police in the province, the two bodies were discovered in separate locations.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said one body was found in Sand River in Kamajika outside Hazyview while the other was discovered in Masoyi outside White River.
Foul play
Shiba was found not far from her residential place and preliminary investigations point towards foul play.
However, preliminary investigations suggest that there was no foul play suspected in Mokoena’s death but police are continuing to probe deeper.
“The police as well as the paramedics were summoned to the scene after the discovery and the woman was unfortunately certified dead at the scene,” said Mohlala.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that there was a foul play in Shiba’s death, hence a murder case was opened, though at first an inquest case was opened but later changed.
“The change came after further information surfaced that suggested that she was murdered.”
Plea to the community
He urged the community to help police bring those who committed the crimes to book.
“Anyone with information that may assist in the investigation can contact Detective-Sergeant Linco Bheki Motubatse on 082 469 2416 or Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP.
“All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.”
Mohlala said police have not arrested or linked anyone to the murders, however, they are probing inquest and murder cases.
Lieutenant-General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, police commissioner in Mpumalanga, said police will thoroughly investigate the cases without fear or favour to ensure that there is justice for the victims and their families.
