WATCH | KZN woman raped, killed, dumped in pit toilet and set alight
Mgoza's cousin, Mxolisi Nzuko, described the discovery of her remains as one of the most traumatic experiences the family has ever endured.
More than two weeks after 41-year-old Sindi Mgoza disappeared, police and her family made a horrific discovery — her burnt remains hidden inside a pit toilet in Impendle, KwaZulu-Natal.
Her relatives believe she was raped before being murdered and her body set alight.
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Police have confirmed they are investigating a murder case, while a 35-year-old suspect, Sanele Makhathini, has appeared in court in connection with the killing.
He is expected to return to court on July 27 for a formal bail application.
Speaking to The Witness, Mgoza’s cousin, Mxolisi Nzuko, described the discovery of her remains as one of the most traumatic experiences the family has ever endured.
“She had injuries to her forehead and what appeared to be three stab wounds. We were devastated by what we saw,” Nzuko said.
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Mgoza was reported missing on July 4 after she failed to return home. Her disappearance prompted a search by her family and police.
According to Nzuko, relatives were informed by people who had been drinking with Mgoza at Kuvikiland Tavern that she was last seen leaving with Makhathini, who is known to the family.
The information was immediately reported to police, but by then Makhathini had allegedly fled the area.
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Police took the man in for questioning.
According to the family, police and relatives were later led by him to the crime scene.
“We were first taken to a bush on top of the mountain and then to the KwaHlongwane family residence, where we found the burnt remains of our sister dumped inside a pit toilet,” said Nzuko.
He described the killing as a catastrophe that has left the entire community in shock.
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Umgungundlovu police spokesperson Sergeant Sifiso Gwala confirmed that a murder case is under investigation.
“We can confirm that police are investigating a murder case. Sanele Makhathini, 35, made his first court appearance on Monday and the matter was postponed to July 27 for a bail application,” said Gwala.
Impendle Municipality mayor Kho Dlamini condemned the killing, describing it as another senseless act of gender-based violence.
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“As the country comes to the end of Men’s Month, we want to send a clear message to men to stop abusing women and children,” said Dlamini.
“Men should be protectors and leaders in our communities, not perpetrators of violence. We call on the justice system to ensure that the law takes its course.”
Dlamini said the killing has sparked outrage in the Impendle community, with residents demanding justice for Mgoza and calling for tougher action against perpetrators of violence against women.
