A Mpumalanga family has been left devastated after DNA results confirmed that two bodies discovered burned beyond recognition in a bushy area along the R535 road belong to a father and son who were kidnapped earlier this year.
The victims, identified as 69-year-old Khasima Freddy Mkhomazi and his 21-year-old son, Gift Mkhomazi, were allegedly abducted at gunpoint on 14 April 2026 from their farmhouse near the famous Sudwala Caves outside Mbombela and Hazyview in Mpumalanga. A third man, 62-year-old Machawe Tsela, who reportedly worked with the family, was also kidnapped during the terrifying incident.
According to reports, armed suspects stormed the farmhouse at around 5pm before forcing the three men into the family’s white Isuzu double-cab bakkie. The kidnappers then fled the scene with the victims, leaving relatives and community members in shock.
Not long after the kidnapping, the Mkhomazi family reportedly received a ransom demand of R10,000 from the suspects. The family desperately hoped the victims would be returned safely, while loved ones and members of the community joined efforts to search for them.
During the ordeal, Freddy Mkhomazi’s daughter, Nomsa Mkhomazi, publicly appealed for assistance and urged anyone with information to come forward. Her emotional plea touched many South Africans who followed the case on social media and shared messages of support with the grieving family.
Days later, the search took a tragic turn when three severely burned bodies were discovered dumped in a bushy area along the R535 route between Hazyview and Graskop. Reports indicate that one of the suspects allegedly led police to the scene where the remains were found.
Due to the condition of the bodies, authorities were initially unable to identify the victims. DNA testing was later conducted to establish their identities.
As of May 2026, DNA results confirmed that two of the remains were those of Freddy Mkhomazi and his son Gift. The third body is believed to be that of Machawe Tsela, although official confirmation was still expected at the time reports emerged.
The tragic deaths of the three men have left residents of Mpumalanga saddened and angered, with many calling for justice and harsher action against violent criminals responsible for kidnappings and murders.
Community members have continued to send condolences to the Mkhomazi family, describing the incident as heartbreaking and cruel. Many people also expressed sympathy for the loved ones of Machawe Tsela, who is believed to have died alongside the father and son.
Police investigations into the case are ongoing, and authorities are expected to continue pursuing all suspects linked to the kidnapping and murders.
The deaths of Freddy Mkhomazi, Gift Mkhomazi, and Machawe Tsela have once again highlighted the growing concerns around violent crime and kidnappings in parts of South Africa.
May their souls rest in peace, and may their families find strength during this painful time. 💔🕊️
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