Bainsvlei — Police in the Free State have launched a high-priority investigation and manhunt following the discovery of the body of a 52-year-old woman who had been reported missing days earlier.
According to the South African Police Service, the woman was last seen on Wednesday, 1 April 2026, at around 19:00 after leaving her home in Meadhurst Road to buy airtime at a nearby shop.
“It is alleged that she left her residence in Meadhurst Road, Bainsvlei, to purchase airtime at a local shop,” police said. “She reportedly left her cellphone at home and never returned.”
A missing person case was opened, and a search operation was launched.
The case took a tragic turn on Sunday morning when police responded to a call about a body found in bushes in the area.
“On Sunday, 05 April 2026, at approximately 10:00, Bainsvlei police received a high-priority call regarding a body discovered in the bushes,” police said.
Officers arriving at the scene made a grim discovery.
“Upon arrival at the scene, officers found the body of a female lying face up,” SAPS said, adding that the victim “was found naked from the waist down with visible physical injuries.”
A family member who was present at the scene identified the body as that of the missing woman.
Police have since opened a murder case and say investigations are ongoing.
“A case of murder is being investigated, and police are following all available leads to apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime,” SAPS said.
Authorities have appealed to members of the public for assistance.
“We appeal to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the Meadhurst Road area between 01 April and 05 April, or who may have information regarding this case, to come forward,” police said.
Information can be shared with Bainsvlei detectives or anonymously through Crime Stop and the MySAPS app, with police assuring that “all information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.”
The incident adds to growing concerns around gender-based violence in South Africa, as police intensify efforts under the #EndGBVF campaign to bring perpetrators to justice.
