By Priya Ranchod
The investigation into the murder of 23-year-old Boitumelo Gift Mashita has taken a dramatic turn after the man identified as a person of interest in the case was found dead inside his vehicle in Midrand.
Earlier on Monday morning, Gauteng police launched a murder and robbery investigation after Mashita was shot and killed while walking to work in Temong, Mapungubwe Street, Thembisa, at approximately 05:45.
According to SAPS Gauteng Provincial spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili, the young woman was allegedly attacked while on her way to work and her belongings were taken during the incident.
"The woman was reportedly on her way to work when she was shot and killed during an alleged robbery. Her belongings were taken during the incident," said Muridili.
As investigations progressed, detectives linked Mashita's estranged husband to the murder. The SAPS Tembisa Tracking Team subsequently began efforts to trace him after he was identified as a person of interest in the case.
Muridili confirmed that police later received information from Midrand Police Station that the man's vehicle had been located within the Midrand policing precinct.
"The investigating team linked the man, who was Boitumelo's estranged husband, to her murder. He was identified as a person of interest and the SAPS Tembisa Tracking Team had been tracing him," she said.
Upon inspection, officers discovered the man's body inside the vehicle.
"It is believed that he may have ingested an unknown substance, as no foul play is suspected at this stage. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death," Muridili added.
Midrand Police have since opened an inquest docket to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
Police have also confirmed that preliminary investigations have found no link between Mashita's murder and the recent cases involving the bodies of women discovered in Ekurhuleni.
"Preliminary investigations have not established any link between this incident and the recent cases involving the bodies of women found in Ekurhuleni," said Muridili.
The tragic sequence of events has left residents of Thembisa and surrounding communities reeling, while renewing concerns around violence against women and domestic-related crimes.
Investigations into both incidents remain ongoing. Muridili urged members of the public with information to come forward.
"Anyone with information is requested to contact their nearest police station, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or submit tip-offs via the MySAPS App," she said.
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