Police in Mphephu, part of the Vhembe District in Limpopo, are conducting an investigation into a tragic incident involving the murder of a 37-year-old woman and her 11-year-old son.
Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng, revealed on Wednesday that officers responded to a report of a double homicide at Manyii village. Upon their arrival at the scene, they were met by the deceased woman’s brother.
The brother explained that he had arrived to find the security gate locked, although the main door was left open. Forcing his way inside, he was struck by a strong odor. Inside, he discovered his sister lying on the bed with visible wounds on her forehead and his nephew on the floor, bearing multiple injuries.
Emergency medical services were immediately called but, tragically, both victims were declared deceased upon their arrival.
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At this stage, the motive for the killings is unclear. However, police suspect that the woman’s husband could be involved, as the couple was reportedly known to have frequent physical altercations. Despite this, no formal complaints had been filed prior to the murders.
According to initial reports, the last confirmed sighting of the woman was on Sunday.
Limpopo’s provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, condemned the violent attack, emphasizing that incidents of gender-based violence and femicide must be eradicated. “Those who commit such heinous crimes must be held accountable to the full extent of the law,” she said.
Police have urged anyone with information related to the case to come forward by contacting Sergeant Khwilimba at 082 319 9558, the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or via the MySAPSApp.
