Pictured is Matome Victor Rampedi who is accused of killing Ntombifuthu Nxumalo. Photo: Facebook
By Priya Ranchod
A 36-year-old man accused of murdering a Tembisa woman whose body was discovered at a local cemetery has appeared before the Tembisa Magistrate's Court, where the matter was postponed for further bail investigations.
Matome Victor Rampedi appeared in court on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, in connection with the murder of Ntombifuthu Nxumalo. Her body was found at Mooifontein Cemetery in the Vusimusi section of Tembisa on 26 September 2026.
According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Gauteng spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole, Rampedi faces a charge of murder following the discovery of Nxumalo's body. The deceased was found naked and had sustained severe head injuries. The State alleges that she was fatally assaulted.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Nxumalo had been drinking at a local tavern with a female acquaintance before leaving the establishment in the company of the accused. It is further alleged that residents living near the cemetery heard a woman screaming and pleading for her life during the incident.
Police investigations led officers to an address in Tembisa, where they established that the suspect had fled to Limpopo Province. With the assistance of South African Police Service members in Limpopo, Rampedi was subsequently arrested in Mohlabaneng Village.
The case has been postponed to 6 October 2026 for further bail investigations. Rampedi remains in custody pending his next court appearance.
Mohlatlole said the NPA remains committed to addressing violence against women and ensuring that those responsible for such crimes are held accountable.
"The National Prosecuting Authority remains unwavering in its commitment to combating violence against women and ensuring that perpetrators of such crimes are brought to justice. The NPA will continue to prosecute this matter without fear, favour or prejudice in pursuit of justice for the victim and her family," said Mohlatlole.
The investigation is ongoing.