EMALAHLENI – The family of 29-year-old Kedibone Sigudu is demanding justice after her decomposing body was found inside a rented room in Lynnville, KwaGuqa, eMalahleni, on Wednesday, 4 November 2026.
The discovery was made after the landlord reportedly noticed a foul smell coming from the locked room occupied by Sigudu's boyfriend.
With the help of the boyfriend's brother, the landlord allegedly forced open the burglar gate and door, where they discovered Sigudu's body.
Community members alleged that Sigudu had been assaulted by her boyfriend since Saturday, 31 October. They claimed she was last seen alive on Sunday, 1 November, with visible bruises around her eyes.
Some residents also claimed they heard her crying during the night before the cries eventually stopped.
According to information the landlord reportedly gave police, Sigudu's boyfriend was last seen on Tuesday, 3 November, at around 08:00, when he locked the burglar gate and left the premises. He allegedly never returned.
The following morning, the landlord became concerned about the smell coming from the room and sought help to gain access.
After opening the door, the smell became stronger, prompting her to contact the police.
Police reportedly found Sigudu's body lying on a grey couch, covered with a floral blanket and grey sheet. The body was already in an advanced state of decomposition.
Sigudu's sister, Thuli Phike, said the family was struggling to come to terms with her death and wanted those responsible to be brought to justice.
The family is now seeking answers about what happened to Sigudu in the days leading up to the discovery of her body.
Police have registered an inquest at Vosman police station to establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
No arrests had been made at the time of publication.
