Police in Mankweng launched an inquest after the body of a 22-year-old woman was discovered near the University of Limpopo campus along Sovenga Street on the morning of 4 October 2026. Officers on patrol were alerted at about 06:00, finding the woman partially clothed with her head inside a trench next to the campus fence.
Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, police spokesperson, confirmed that emergency medical services declared the woman dead at the scene. “Police were on patrol duties when they received information about a female victim found lying motionless along the campus fence and rushed to the scene,” he said. No visible external injuries were observed during the initial inspection of the body.
A bag containing the deceased’s identity document and NSFAS card was found beside her body. However, her full identity has not been publicly released as police are still in the process of informing her family. Investigations remain ongoing to establish the exact circumstances surrounding her death.
Preliminary police reports suggest the woman may have accidentally fallen into the trench, although this has not been confirmed. Brigadier Mashaba emphasised, “It is suspected that the deceased may have accidentally fallen into the trench and the exact circumstances surrounding her death are under investigation.” An official inquest has been opened as police continue their inquiries.
The discovery has raised concern in the area close to the university campus, but no evidence has yet pointed to foul play or criminal activity. Authorities have not released a cause of death pending further forensic examination.
This incident highlights ongoing safety challenges around infrastructure near public spaces and educational institutions. The University of Limpopo is cooperating with police as the investigation proceeds.
CapeFlats.co.za will monitor this matter closely and provide updates as official information becomes available.