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By Zinhle Cele

QWAQWA, FREE STATE – A heartbreaking end has been confirmed in the search for Malefu Julia Nkutha (70), the elderly woman who went missing on 19 July 2025 in Phuthaditjhaba. Her lifeless body was discovered and retrieved from a river between Kollatsoene and Phuthaditjhaba on Thursday, 24 July — just five days after her mysterious disappearance sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community.

The discovery was made with the assistance of her family, who were present at the scene and were able to positively identify her remains. The scene was filled with grief as stunned relatives broke down, unable to comprehend the cruel fate that befell their beloved elder.

SAPS Search and rescue retrieving the body of Malefu Julia — SAPS Search and rescue team retrieving the body of Malefu Julia

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A Tragic End to a Desperate Search

Malefu Julia Nkutha was last seen leaving her home in Phuthaditjhaba on Saturday, 19 July, on her way to visit a friend. But she never made it. After hours turned into days with no sign of her, her family reported her missing, and a widespread community-led search began. Flyers were distributed, social media pleas went viral, and the local police were involved in the desperate efforts to locate her.

Hope turned to despair when her body was spotted by passers-by floating in the river that separates Kollatsoene and Phuthaditjhaba. Authorities, assisted by search teams and family members, recovered her body from the water.

What Happened to Malefu?

At this stage, police have not confirmed the cause of death. An inquest docket has been opened, and a postmortem will be conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding her death. The possibility of foul play has not been ruled out.

Family spokesperson said, “We are devastated. Gogo Malefu was a peaceful woman who wouldn’t harm anyone. She was active for her age and loved by the entire community. We need answers.”

Residents have raised concerns over growing fears that the elderly, especially women, are increasingly becoming targets of crime or neglect in the area.

QwaQwa Community in Mourning

The community of Phuthaditjhaba is in mourning, with many expressing anger and fear over the rising number of missing person cases — some of which end in tragedy. Community members are now demanding improved safety measures and more proactive police work in rural areas.

One resident said, “If she were attacked or pushed into the river, we need to know. If she fell accidentally, where was the help when she needed it most? Either way, our elders are not safe.”

Stay Safe: Tips for Protecting the Elderly

In the wake of this tragedy, here are important safety tips for families with elderly relatives:

Avoid Walking Alone: Encourage elderly family members to walk in groups or be accompanied when leaving home.
Mobile Phone Tracking: Where possible, equip elderly individuals with cellphones that have GPS tracking and emergency contact features.
Regular Check-Ins: Set a system of regular check-ins via calls or messages to ensure they have reached their destination safely.
Identify Safe Routes: Choose well-lit, populated routes for daily errands or visits and avoid isolated paths near rivers, forests, or open land.
Educate and Empower: Make sure your elderly relatives know what to do in case of distress — such as shouting for help or calling emergency services.

Authorities Call for Information

Anyone with further information regarding the events that led to the death of Malefu Julia Nkutha is urged to come forward. Contact Detective Warrant Officer Mathibela on 082 554 3461 or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.

As the investigation continues, the Nkutha family now prepares to lay their loved one to rest. The pain of her loss lingers, but the hope remains that justice will be served and that her death will not be in vain.