Mutale police in Limpopo have opened an inquest and a murder case after the bodies of a 54-year-old man and an 18-month-old child were found hanging inside a house in Mafukani village on Wednesday, 11 February.
Police were alerted by community members who made the discovery and immediately contacted the authorities.
The deceased have been identified as Vengai Makuhunga Maphosa, 54, and 18-month-old Kharuso Nefolovhodwe.
According to police, the child had been left in the care of Maphosa by her mother, who is currently receiving treatment in hospital following a car accident. Maphosa was the mother’s former boyfriend.
Vhembe police spokesperson Capt Vuledzani Dathi said two cases had been opened.
“The motive for the incident is not yet known. Investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information that can assist police investigations is urged to contact their nearest police station,” he said.