The community of Seshego in Limpopo is reeling in shock and grief following the brutal killing of 26-year-old Lebo Molautsi, who was allegedly strangled to death by her ex-boyfriend in her residence on 26 January 2026. The devastating incident has once again thrown the spotlight on the ongoing crisis of gender-based violence in South Africa, as families, community members, and activists mourn another young life lost under tragic circumstances.
According to police reports, Molautsi was found dead inside her room, where investigators believe she was attacked by her former partner. The suspect, identified as Dennis Tlhako, is currently on the run and is wanted on charges of murder and attempted murder. Authorities have launched a nationwide manhunt as they intensify efforts to locate and arrest him.
What has made the case even more disturbing is the revelation that, just hours before Molautsi’s killing, the same suspect allegedly assaulted another woman in Mookgophong. The victim was reportedly left in a critical condition and is currently receiving treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU). Police believe the two incidents are connected and have described the suspect as extremely dangerous, urging members of the public not to approach him but to report any information that could lead to his arrest.
Residents of Seshego have expressed deep anger and sadness over the incident, with many calling for stronger action against perpetrators of domestic and gender-based violence. Community leaders say Molautsi’s death is not just a personal tragedy for her family, but a painful reminder of how vulnerable women remain in abusive relationships, even after they have tried to move on with their lives.
Friends and relatives described Molautsi as a warm and kind-hearted young woman who had dreams for her future. Her untimely death has left her family devastated, struggling to come to terms with the violent manner in which her life was taken. Messages of condolences have continued to pour in on social media, where many users are also demanding justice and tougher consequences for those who commit such crimes.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has reiterated its commitment to bringing the suspect to book and ensuring that he faces the full might of the law. Police have also appealed to anyone with information about Tlhako’s whereabouts to come forward, emphasizing that even the smallest tip could be crucial in helping to secure an arrest.
Molautsi’s killing has once again reignited national conversations about gender-based violence and the urgent need for more effective prevention measures, better support systems for victims, and faster intervention when warning signs appear. Activists argue that while awareness campaigns are important, real change will only come when perpetrators are consistently held accountable and survivors are given stronger protection.
As Seshego mourns the loss of another young woman, many hope that this tragic case will not fade into statistics, but instead serve as a turning point in the ongoing fight against violence directed at women. For now, a family grieves, a community searches for answers, and a country is once again forced to confront a painful and persistent reality.
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