MANJENGENI – Police are hunting a man who allegedly stabbed his 22-year-old girlfriend to death on Valentine’s Day over E1 500 he claimed to have spent on her.
Siphumelele Nkentjane was killed on Saturday afternoon near Mananga Border Gate, under Mhlangatane Inkhundla. The suspect, described as her boyfriend since 2025, reportedly fled to South Africa shortly after the incident.
According to the deceased’s mother, Gcinile Mahlalela, tensions in the relationship had escalated in recent weeks. She alleged that the suspect had previously confiscated a mobile phone he had bought Nkentjane and had demanded repayment of about E1 500 after she indicated she wanted to end the relationship.
On Saturday, the suspect allegedly called Nkentjane, requesting a meeting and promised to give her money. She left home saying she was travelling to Tshaneni, but instead met him near the border.
Family members allege the pair argued before the suspect dragged her into nearby bush and stabbed her multiple times. Passers-by discovered her and alerted Mananga Border Police. She was rushed to hospital, but was certified dead on arrival. A post-mortem reportedly found that a stab wound to the neck was fatal.
The suspect is believed to have crossed into South Africa before news of the killing spread. Police have not confirmed his exact whereabouts.
The killing has raised renewed concern about violence linked to relationship disputes and financial control. Nkentjane leaves behind two young children, aged five and two.
In a statement, the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) confirmed that Pigg’s Peak police are investigating a murder case and appealed to anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward.
The family plans to bury Nkentjane on Sunday at Hlane and has appealed for public assistance with funeral expenses.
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