By Zinhle Cele
Published: August 2, 2025

The case of a missing mother and daughter from Limpopo has taken a tragic turn, leaving the nation in shock. What began as a hopeful search for a 34-year-old woman and her two-year-old daughter has now ended in heartbreak, after police discovered their headless bodies and arrested two suspects in connection with their murder.

Hope Turns to Horror in the Case of Missing Mother and Daughter

Tshigwili Rendani, a 34-year-old resident of Malavuwe Mphalaleni village, and her toddler daughter were first reported missing on Monday, May 19, 2025. According to initial police reports, the mother and daughter were last seen in Tshilungoma village, where Tshigwili had informed someone that she was heading to Thohoyandou town to purchase electricity. Tragically, they never returned home, sparking a widespread search and a wave of concern across communities in Limpopo.

The case was taken up by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Thohoyandou, alongside the Provincial team of investigators dedicated to missing persons. Throughout two and a half months, police followed various leads, refusing to give up hope of finding the mother and daughter alive.

That hope was shattered on Tuesday, July 30, 2025, when members of the Provincial Task Team followed a credible lead that led them to a gruesome discovery — the decomposed, headless bodies of Tshigwili and her daughter. Their remains were found in a remote location, confirming the community’s worst fears.

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Two Suspects Arrested in Gruesome Murder of Missing Mother and Daughter

Following the discovery of the missing mother and daughter, police moved swiftly to arrest two suspects in connection with the killings. Tshilidzi Phalandwa (43) and Balangani Sedzani Tshivhombedze (32) were apprehended and formally charged with the murders.

Shockingly, initial investigations suggest that one of the suspects was romantically involved with the deceased mother. This revelation has added to the emotional devastation, as many in the community struggle to comprehend how someone close to her could be implicated in such a monstrous crime.

The motive behind the killings remains under investigation. However, the brutal nature of the crime — particularly the fact that both victims were found without their heads — has led to public speculation, with some suggesting ritualistic elements may be involved. Police have not confirmed these theories and have urged the public to allow the investigation to proceed without speculation.

Police Commissioner Praises Investigative Team

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, expressed her deep sorrow over the outcome of the investigation but praised the police for their exceptional investigative skills.

“While we mourn the tragic loss of the mother and daughter, I commend our dedicated investigators who worked tirelessly on this case. Their commitment led to the arrest of the suspects and the recovery of the victims, giving the family and community some closure,” said Hadebe.

She further confirmed that the two suspects appeared in the Vuwani Magistrate’s Court on August 1, 2025, where they were remanded in custody. The case was postponed to August 12, 2025, to allow further investigation.

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Community in Mourning Demands Justice for Missing Mother and Daughter

News of the discovery and arrests has sent shockwaves through Vhembe District and beyond. Community members have taken to social media to express their anger, sadness, and disbelief.

“This is heartbreaking. We were all hoping they would be found alive. What did a two-year-old do to deserve this?” one local resident wrote on Facebook.

Community leaders have also called on authorities to ensure that justice is served swiftly and that no stone is left unturned in the investigation. The brutality of the crime has reignited conversations about gender-based violence and the safety of women and children in South Africa.

Ongoing Investigation into the Death of Missing Mother and Daughter

Despite the arrests, many questions remain unanswered. What led to the murder? Why were the victims decapitated? Were there others involved? Police have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and more details are expected to emerge as forensic reports and further interrogations proceed.

Authorities have also appealed to the public to come forward with any additional information that may assist in the case. Those with relevant knowledge are encouraged to contact Sergeant Khumbelo Manari on 076 751 2698. All information will be treated confidentially.

A Nation Grieves: Remembering the Lives Lost

The story of Tshigwili Rendani and her daughter has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle against violence targeting women and children in South Africa. As the justice system begins to take its course, the memory of the missing mother and daughter will remain etched in the hearts of many.

Their lives, though tragically cut short, have become a rallying cry for stronger protection measures, better community policing, and a renewed focus on the safety of the vulnerable.

As investigations continue and court proceedings unfold, Missing Person South Africa News will keep the public informed with accurate and respectful coverage of the case.

🕊️ May their souls rest in peace. May justice prevail.

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