A 21‑year‑old man handed himself over to police in Joza, Makhanda, on Friday, 9 January 2026, in connection with the brutal Christmas Day murder of 16‑year‑old Linomtha Skeyi (pictured), whose body was discovered in an open field in the township on 25 December 2025.
The suspect reported at the Joza SAPS and was immediately arrested, marking a significant development in a case that shook the community and reignited concerns about violence against young women.
Skeyi had been reported missing on Christmas Eve, and her body was found the next morning during a search operation.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed that the motive for the killing remains unclear and is part of an ongoing investigation. The accused is expected to appear before the Makhanda Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 12 January 2026.
Since the discovery of Skeyi’s body last month, community members have expressed deep grief and outrage, with vigils held to honour her memory and calls for swift justice.
Police continue to appeal for any information that could assist in establishing the full circumstances surrounding her death.
