Police in the North West have launched a murder investigation following the discovery of a woman’s body floating in a river in the Moretele area, near Majaneng, on Monday morning. The disturbing find has left residents shocked and authorities searching for answers as efforts continue to identify the deceased and establish the circumstances surrounding her death.
The body was discovered at around **6:30am** in a small river near Bosplaas Road, close to Hammanskraal. A member of the public who was passing through the area noticed the body in the water and immediately alerted the authorities. Emergency services and police 
were dispatched to the scene, where the woman was declared dead upon arrival.
According to police, a shoe believed to belong to the victim was found near the riverbank, raising questions about where she may have entered the water. At this stage, investigators are unable to confirm how long the body had been in the river or whether the woman sustained injuries prior to her death.
North West police spokesperson **Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone** confirmed that a case of murder has been opened and is being investigated by the Makapanstad police. He said the woman has not yet been identified, and police are appealing to the public for assistance.
“The circumstances surrounding her death are still unknown. Investigations are ongoing, and we urge anyone who may have information that could assist police to come forward,” Mokgwabone said.
The discovery has caused unease among community members in Majaneng and surrounding areas. Residents have expressed concern about safety and called for increased police visibility, particularly in areas close to rivers and open land where crimes can go unnoticed.
Police forensic teams have since processed the scene, and the woman’s body has been taken to a government mortuary for a post-mortem examination. The results are expected to provide critical information regarding the cause of death and whether foul play was involved.
Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and say all avenues of investigation remain open. Detectives are also attempting to determine whether the woman had been reported missing elsewhere or if she may have come from another area.
Police have urged families who may be searching for missing loved ones to contact their nearest police station. Members of the public with information are encouraged to contact SAPS Crime Stop anonymously.
As the investigation continues, police have assured the community that they are committed to uncovering the truth behind the woman’s death and bringing those responsible to justice if criminal activity is confirmed.
