Polokwane – Murder accused, Samuel Molefe, who was arrested after police found the charred body of his wife, tied with a wire around her waist, lying next to a burning bakkie, has been remanded in custody.
The 41-year-old suspect appeared in the Northam Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, in connection with a murder incident that occurred in Northam under the Waterberg District in Limpopo.
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the court appearance follows a gruesome discovery of a charred body during the early hours of Sunday, 3 May 2026, along Sefikile Gravel Road next to MBT Garage.
“Police had responded to a complaint of a motor vehicle on fire at about 03:45,” said Colonel Ledwaba.
“Upon arrival, members found a vehicle engulfed in flames and the body of a woman lying next to it.
“The deceased, aged 37, was found tied with a wire around the waist and had sustained severe burn injuries.
“The body was burned beyond recognition.”
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the suspect, Molefe, who is believed to be the husband of the deceased, was arrested later the same day.
“The motive behind the incident is still under investigation, but domestic violence-related issues cannot be ruled out,” the spokesperson said.
The accused was remanded in custody until 12 May 2026 for further police investigation.
Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned the incident and urged members of the public to seek peaceful means of resolving disputes.
“We continue to call on communities to desist from acts of violence, particularly in domestic-related matters,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
“Taking the law into your own hands and resorting to killing one another is not a solution.
“We encourage individuals experiencing challenges in their relationships to seek assistance from relevant support structures and law enforcement authorities.”
Police investigations are ongoing.
