The family of the murdered elderly farmer from Tshaulu say they are relieved they can finally bury their loved one, nearly two months after his death.
Mr Thifhelimbilu David Netshilaphala (62) left home on Saturday, 27 February, to check on his livestock at nearby Manghena village in Xikundu. He was never seen alive again.
His disappearance sparked violence in the village, culminating in the burning of six houses belonging to suspected cattle thieves and murderers.
Two suspects, aged 21 and 32, were arrested on 10 March at separate locations. They had allegedly confessed to the murder and led police to the decomposed body, which was found in nearby bushes.
Although the family managed to identify the body, it was not immediately released as the police needed to confirm its identity through DNA testing. The results came back positive almost two months later.
The family received the remains on Monday, 12 May. Mr Netshilaphala's sister, Ms Shonisani Nemakhavhani, said they were informed of the DNA results over the weekend. "Though still very grief-stricken, we are relieved that we can at last bury him with dignity. My brother died a terrible and painful death, and the two-month wait for his remains added salt to our wounded hearts. We are now preparing for his funeral," she said.
Nemakhavhani said the incident had revived painful memories of seven-year-old Rilise Munyai, who had gone missing while herding cattle with his uncle, Netshilaphala.
"I am still very hurt. My brother was falsely accused of killing his nephew, even by people close to him. Now that the real suspects are in custody, we hope they will tell us where the boy is and clear my brother's name, even in death. Sadly, those who accused him will never be able to apologise," she said.
A memorial service will be held in the village on 15 May. The funeral takes place on Saturday, 17 May.