30/06/2025
Breakthrough as Police Arrest Four Suspects in Buhlebenkosi Makhanda Murder Case
Standerton – The brutal murder of 20-year-old Buhlebenkosi Makhanda has gripped the town of Standerton, with police now confirming a major breakthrough in the case.
Four suspects have been arrested in connection with her killing, amid rising community calls for justice and an end to gender-based violence (GBV).
According to a statement by Captain Braam Roberts, spokesperson for Standerton SAPS, four local suspects will appear in the Standerton Magistrate’s Court on 30 June 2025.
They face charges of murder, attempted murder, and r**e relating to Buhle’s case, and are also charged in a second case of carjacking and kidnapping.
"A team from the local Detective Branch, led by Sergeant Mbele, gathered crucial information that led to the arrest of the four suspects at their hiding place," Captain Roberts confirmed.
"Evidence linking them to the first case was found in their possession."
In the second case, the complainant reportedly recognised one of the suspects by name, and a vehicle connected to the incident was also recovered in their possession.
Captain Roberts added that further charges may be added in the coming week as investigations continue.
Buhle was last seen alive on 31 May 2025, walking with a male friend when they were ambushed by armed men.
The suspects robbed them of their mobile phones and held them at gunpoint. Her friend was released, but Buhle was taken.
Her body was discovered on, 1 June, the next day near a graveyard, half-naked, with multiple gunshot wounds. Police suspect she was also sexually assaulted.
Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, condemned the crime and promised that no effort would be spared in bringing those responsible to justice.
On 3 June, the community gathered for a candlelight prayer walk to honour Buhlebenkosi. Dressed in black and white, residents marched from the Sakhile municipal offices to the hostels, candles in hand, chanting for justice.
“This walk was a way for us to mourn, to heal, and to demand answers.”
“Buhle’s name must never be forgotten.”
Joining the walk was the Lekwa Community Forum, whose spokesperson, Cllr. Selloo Tsotetsi, released a powerful media statement condemning GBV in all its forms.
“Gender-Based Violence is not a private matter, it is a national crisis that must be addressed urgently. We call on all sectors, government, civil society, media, and communities, to act now.”
The Forum called for:
• Stronger laws and swift justice
• Accessible support for survivors
• Accountability for perpetrators
With four suspects now in custody, the community of Standerton cautiously hopes for justice, but also knows that this is just one case in a much larger crisis.
As candles continue to burn for Buhlebenkosi Makhanda, the town sends a clear message:
We will not be silent. We will not forget.
