Police in Vuwani are investigating the murder of a respected Malamulele businessman whose bullet-riddled body was found near a power station along the Vuwani–Malamulele Road in the early hours of Saturday, 20 June.
The victim, 45-year-old Elvis Chauke, a welder and owner of a small business complex, was discovered at about 01:00 next to the power station, not far from a local filling station. A Nissan bakkie believed to belong to him was found nearby.
According to information available, a security officer patrolling the area made the discovery and alerted police. Officers found Chauke’s body with multiple gunshot wounds. The motive for the killing is not yet known, and no arrests have been made.
Family spokesperson and uncle of the deceased, Mr Sam Manganyi, said Chauke had left home saying he was going to buy fuel at the Global Filling Station at the Tshimbupfe turn-off.
“We later received a call from the police asking us to come to the scene. I did not have the strength to go there. As a family, we are devastated and shattered beyond words,” said Manganyi.
“Imagine your loved one telling you that he is just going nearby to buy fuel, only for you to be called a few hours later to identify his bullet-riddled body lying in a pool of blood. This is something that will remain with us forever.”
Manganyi described Chauke as a humble, hardworking entrepreneur who built his business from the ground up and served his community.
“He was a grounded person who respected everyone. The family and the community are mourning deeply. What pains us most is that we are left with many unanswered questions. We do not know who killed him or why they targeted him. We are placing our trust in the police investigation,” he said.
Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi confirmed that a murder case has been opened at Vuwani police station and that investigations are continuing. Anyone with information is urged to contact investigating officer Constable Rofhiwa Mavhumgu on 072 683 6863.
Chauke will be laid to rest on Saturday, 27 June, at Hasani Dakari cemetery.