Suspect, 30, arrested after body of missing 23-year-old man found buried in shallow grave
The search for a missing 23-year-old in Vlaklaagte, Mpumalanga, ended after police arrested a 30-year-old suspect and uncovered the victim buried in a shallow grave.
Image: Jonathan Jones
Mpumalanga police have arrested a 30-year-old suspect for murder after the body of a missing 23-year-old was found buried in a shallow grave in Vlaklaagte, Kwaggafontein.
Police said the incident occurred between February 1 - 5, 2026.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said an officer was assigned to investigate the disappearance of Karabo Kitima, 23, who resides in Vlaklaagte.
“During the investigation, the officer conducted enquiries with the missing person’s friends, neighbours and relatives; however, no information regarding his whereabouts could be established,” Ndubane said.
On February 6, the officer received information from informers about suspicious activity at the suspect’s residence.
“It was reported that the suspect was gardening in a manner that raised suspicion,” Ndubane said.
The following day, all relevant stakeholders, including the K9 Unit, were summoned to the premises.
“Upon arrival, a K9 handler instructed the police dog to search the yard, particularly at the back of the property.”
“The dog indicated a specific spot by digging, prompting the handler to alert police members,” Ndubane said.
Fire and Rescue Services were called to excavate the area, where they discovered a decomposed male body wearing clothing similar to that of the missing person.
The suspect was arrested and is expected to appear soon at Mkobola Magistrate’s Court, facing a charge of murder.
“Investigations are ongoing,” Ndubane added.
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