Human remains were discovered under an abandoned house near Libode in the Eastern Cape, during a search for a woman, Sinentlahla Gcingca, who went missing in 2016.

Members of the community were assisting police with information about the 34-year-old woman, who went missing in September 2016, when the bones were discovered.

The bones resembled human bones and were covered with a blanket and buried in a shallow grave.

They will be sent for testing to determine whether they belong to the missing woman, according to police spokesperson Captain Khaya Tonjeni.

A murder case has been opened.

Anyone who has information to assist police can contact Detective Captain Nkosinathi Harry Zwakala on 082 921 1003 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.