News24 | Missing teen found dead in stepfather’s locked Mpumalanga home

The body of a missing teenager has been found inside a locked home in Mpumalanga.

A missing teenager has been found dead inside her stepfather’s locked home in Mpumalanga.

The 17-year-old was found inside the locked shack in Kinross on Wednesday after going missing last Friday, said police spokesperson, Sergeant Thulisile Magagula.

“A request was later made to the police to search a residence believed to be associated with the girl’s stepfather. Upon arrival at the shack in Extension 33, Marikana, Kinross, police found the doors and burglar gates locked. Forced entry was made, and a gruesome discovery was made in one of the bedrooms,” said Magagula.

The girl was found naked, covered in blankets, and her body was in a “semi-decomposed state”, said Magagula.

The victim had visible head injuries.

“A bloodstained pipe wrench was found next to the bed and is believed to have been used in the murder,” said Magagula.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that the victim had recently argued with her stepfather over his intention to sell the shack that once belonged to her late mother. The teenager had reportedly objected, expressing concern for her younger siblings, who would need a place to stay in the future.”

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The man is currently in custody for a separate incident involving the murder of his 34-year-old girlfriend last Friday.

“He is now a suspect in both murders,” said Magagula.

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi said: “The brutal killing of women and children is unacceptable.

“These acts will not be tolerated. We are committed to ensuring that those responsible face the full might of the law,” Mkhwanazi added.