The body of 23-year-old University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) student Simphiwe Zinhle Mchunu has been discovered buried in a shallow grave in Umlazi, south of Durban, more than a month after she was reported missing.
Simphiwe was last seen on 22 November 2025 and was reported missing by her family after she failed to return home. Her remains were found on 22 December 2025, buried inside a suitcase on a property in Umlazi.
Police allege that Simphiwe was killed following an argument with her 22-year-old boyfriend. Investigators believe she was murdered and later concealed in a suitcase in an attempt to hide the crime.
Suspicion around the boyfriend intensified after he was allegedly found in possession of Simphiwe’s mobile phones and bank card. Concerned family members subsequently hired a private investigator, whose findings assisted police in tracing and arresting the suspect more than three weeks after her disappearance.
After spending a day in police custody, the suspect allegedly confessed to the crime and led officers to the location where Simphiwe’s body was buried.
Simphiwe was described by her family and peers as a hardworking and dedicated student. She leaves behind a three-year-old daughter.
Police investigations are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to face charges related to her murder.
