Woman (55) killed after spaza trip!

Authorities in Limpopo are currently conducting a manhunt for a 47-year-old man following the fatal stabbing of a 55-year-old woman. The incident took place in the Mninginisi Block of the Muyexe policing area, located within the Mopani district.

According to police spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the attack occurred on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at approximately 5:30 pm. Officers responding to the scene found the victim lying in a pool of blood with multiple stab wounds.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel certified the woman dead at the scene. Preliminary investigations indicate the victim was returning from a local spaza shop when she encountered the suspect.

Details of the Attack

Colonel Ledwaba stated that the suspect allegedly attacked the woman with a knife, stabbing her repeatedly. The victim’s screams for help alerted her daughter, who rushed to the scene and found her mother.

During the initial investigation, police recovered the handle of a broken knife. This item is believed to have been used during the brutal assault.

Did You Know? The handle of a broken knife, believed to be the weapon used in the attack, was recovered by police at the scene.

Manhunt for Xitayi Hlungwani

Police have identified the suspect as 47-year-old Xitayi Hlungwani. A manhunt has been launched to locate him and bring him into custody.

The motive for the killing remains unknown and is currently a central part of the ongoing police investigation. Colonel Ledwaba has appealed to Mr. Hlungwani to present himself at the nearest police station or contact the investigating team.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the recovery of physical evidence at the scene, such as the broken knife handle, is a critical step in the forensic process. The fact that the victim was targeted during a routine trip to a spaza shop underscores the sudden and violent nature of this crime.

Potential Next Steps

Law enforcement may continue to rely on public tips to locate the suspect. The investigation will uncover a specific motive as more evidence is analysed.

The suspect could be apprehended if members of the community provide information to the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Tinyiko Mabasa, or via the MySAPS App.

Public Assistance Requested

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Xitayi Hlungwani is urged to contact Warrant Officer Tinyiko Mabasa at 067 595 0240.

Alternatively, the public may call Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or submit information anonymously through the MySAPS App.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the suspect in the Muyexe murder case?
The suspect has been identified by police as 47-year-old Xitayi Hlungwani.

Where and when did the incident occur?
The attack happened at Mninginisi Block in the Muyexe policing area, Mopani district, Limpopo, on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at about 5:30 pm.

What was the victim doing prior to the attack?
Preliminary investigations reveal the 55-year-old woman was returning from a local spaza shop when she encountered the suspect.

How can community vigilance help in solving violent crimes in rural districts?