UNIVEN student found murdered, boyfriend arrested
A 20-year-old male UNIVEN student has been arrested following the brutal murder of his girlfriend [20] at a student residence on Friday.
According to preliminary reports, the two entered the residence together in the afternoon, appearing in good spirits. Shortly thereafter, loud noises and signs of distress were heard from the room.
Security personnel responded swiftly, forcibly entering the locked room where they found the female student fatally wounded. Two knives were found at the scene.
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Immediately following the attack, the perpetrator attempted to harm himself by jumping through the second-floor window.
He sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention at a local hospital under police guard. He is expected to appear before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court, Limpopo, on Monday, 1 September 2025.
The female victim, from Tshitomboni [Makovha] village, is a first-year Bachelor of Arts in Language Practice student at the University. The suspect is a second-year student in the Bachelor of Environmental Sciences program.
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“The entire University community is reeling from this tragic loss,” said UNIVEN Vice-Chancellor and Principal Prof Bernard Nthambeleni.
“I am deeply devastated by the untimely and violent death of our student. On behalf of the University of Venda, I extend heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fellow students.
“This senseless act of violence is unacceptable and is strongly condemned. As we close Women’s Month, a time when we reflect on the value, dignity, and strength of women, it is profoundly painful to face such a tragedy.”
“UNIVEN remains steadfast in its commitment to fight gender-based violence in all its forms, while working with law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to strengthen measures that safeguard the safety and well-being of our students.”
Meanwhile, a team representing the UNIVEN management has visited the family of the deceased to offer condolences and support.
