Police in Mphephu, located in the Vhembe District of Limpopo, are investigating a tragic double murder following the brutal killing of a 37-year-old woman and her 11-year-old son. The incident took place at Manyii village, where officers were called to the scene after a concerned family member discovered the bodies.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng, a spokesperson for the provincial police, the woman’s brother reported finding the house locked, but the door wide open when he arrived. As he entered, an unpleasant smell greeted him, and what he found inside was horrific. His sister was discovered lying on her bed, her forehead bearing open wounds, while his nephew was found on the floor, showing multiple injuries across his small body.
Emergency medical services (EMS) were called to the scene but tragically declared both victims dead upon arrival. The police have not yet determined a clear motive for this heart-wrenching crime, although domestic violence remains a key focus of their investigation. Preliminary reports suggest that the husband of the 37-year-old woman may be a suspect, as he and the victim had reportedly been involved in physical altercations in the past. However, despite these prior incidents, no formal case had been opened before the tragic deaths.
The woman was last seen alive on Sunday, and her death has sent shockwaves through the local community. Limpopo’s Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, condemned the brutal killings, stressing that incidents of gender-based violence and femicide will not be tolerated. “Perpetrators of such heinous acts need to face the full might of the law,” Hadebe said, emphasizing the province’s commitment to combating these serious issues.
The police are urging anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to come forward. Those with knowledge of the case are encouraged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Khwilimba, at 082 319 9558, or to report anonymously via Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or the nearest police station. Additionally, the MySAPSApp is available for the public to use in aiding investigations.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain determined to uncover the full details behind this tragic double murder and bring those responsible to justice.
