By Kopano Dibakwane
Two female suspects, Lungile Khumalo(25) and Queen Nhleko(26), were remanded in custody after making their first appearance at the Standerton Magistrate’s Court on 9 June 2025 facing charges of murder and attempted murder.
The two women were arrested following the death of a 35-year-old female victim, who was allegedly assaulted severely by the suspects after she was accused of stealing R1000 at a party they attended together. The victim’s male friend is said to have also sustained serious injuries during the alleged attack.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, said a police report has revealed that the victim, was reportedly a friend
“ It is alleged that the 35-year-old victim was walking along with her male friend and they were stopped by the two women. The suspects reportedly took the victim and her male friend to a shack belonging to one of the suspect’s boyfriend, and upon arrival, they started assaulting them using an electric cable chord, shovel, and further used a knife to stab them demanding their money,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The victim was reportedly taken to a nearby clinic by the suspects, after realising that she was unconscious. She was reportedly certified dead on arrival due to a stab wound to her back, bruises and a swollen head.
“ Police were called to the scene and the two suspects were arrested, facing a charge of murder of the victim and attempted murder of the boyfriend. The boyfriend is currently in hospital in a critical but stable condition,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The two women remain in custody and they will make their second court appearance on 18 June 2025 for a formal bail application.
