By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Mandenane Emmie Maunye(83) was initially reported to have died when her home caught fire last month, but further scrutiny by the police Crime Intelligence Unit has pointed to her own 40-year-old daughter for allegedly orchestrating the death in an alleged plot to secure a life insurance policy claim.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, the daughter was arrested on Thursday 10 April 2025, after two other suspects also linked to the alleged plot appeared before the Acornhoek Magistrate’s Court on the same day of her arrest.
One of the other two suspects, who have already appeared in court in connection with the alleged murder, is said to be the victim’s 26-year-old granddaughter identified as Lebo Magopane.
Lt-Col Ndubane also said the first suspect identified as Polite Thapelo Khoza(25), who claimed to be a pastor, was arrested in Nelspruit on a separate case of housebreaking and theft that occurred in Mattafin (outside Nelspruit) in December 2024.
“ Subsequent investigations uncovered connections to other crimes including house robbery, kidnapping, and arson. The suspect(Khoza) currently remains in custody, with stolen items serving as crucial evidence,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has expressed concern about the ‘disturbing’ trend and prevalence of murders linked to insurance claims.
“ We urge the public to report such cases promptly, and rest assured, the police will diligently investigate these matters to ensure justice prevails,” said General Mkhwanazi.
The 40-year-old suspect will reportedly appear before the Acornhoek Magistrate’s Court to face the charges preferred against her, while Khoza and Magopane were remanded in custody pending their second appearance on Tuesday 15 April 2025 after the case was postponed.
