Mpumalanga teen accused of murder, rape of classmate found hanging in police cells

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the death of a teenager who was detained at Pienaar police station.

It is alleged that the 17-year-old deceased was found hanging inside a single juvenile cell on Saturday morning. According to IPID, he used his school shirt to commit suicide, reports Mpumalanga News.

The deceased had been arrested for rape and murder of 16-year-old Nomthandazo Mbatha, who was found in a shallow grave last week.

The 17-year-old accused of the rape and murder of Nomthandazo Mbatha allegedly committed suicide a day after his court appearance.

He was detained at Pienaar SAPS and was scheduled to appear in court on Monday for a social worker’s report and a bail application.

An inquest docket was opened and will be investigated by the IPID.

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