Developments surrounding the murder of Jabulile Ntimba—the ninth woman found dead in a string of tragic killings across Ekurhuleni—took a turn on Monday as police confirmed a male suspect questioned in connection with the crime has been released without charge.
Deputy National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili confirmed outside the Boksburg Magistrate's Court that the man, initially taken in alongside two women, was not enrolled in the case. Mosikili noted that investigators are continuing to follow up on leads, consult with prosecutors, and determine if the individual or other suspects are linked to the crime through guided investigations and potential identity parades.
Female Duo Charged with Premeditated Murder
Meanwhile, 32-year-old Fortunate Masilela and 41-year-old Tsakane Nester Msithini appeared in the dock at the Boksburg Magistrate's Court on Monday, September 22. The two women face charges of premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice.
Because they face a Schedule 6 offense, the burden of proof rests heavily on the defense to demonstrate exceptional circumstances warranting their release. Both women were remanded in custody and are scheduled to make a formal bail application on October 1.
Details of the Gruesome Discovery
Ntimba’s body was discovered on September 17 by a passer-by in an open field on Lama Street in Villa Lisa, Dawn Park. Police reported that she had suffered severe physical assault and her throat had been slit. Initial police assessments suggest the motive behind Ntimba's murder may stem from an alleged love triangle.
Strict Media Restrictions Inside Court
During Monday's proceedings, the presiding magistrate granted permission only for audio recordings of the court hearing. Photographs and video coverage of the accused, as well as court officers, were strictly prohibited. Following the ruling, family members inside the courtroom were seen passing newspapers to Masilela and Msithini to help them hide their faces from the public eye.
Investigations into the broader series of killings across the Ekurhuleni region remain ongoing under a national priority task team.
