Disbelief, shock and grief hang over Ngudza and surrounding communities following the death of a 33-year-old carpenter who allegedly took his own life inside his vehicle at a Thohoyandou petrol station shortly after purchasing a R6,000 betting voucher.
The incident occurred on the morning of Thursday, 30 April at the Sasol filling station near the Thohoyandou traffic circle. The deceased has been identified as Thulani Andrew Maluleke, a self-employed and highly regarded carpenter from Ngudza village.
According to preliminary police reports, Maluleke entered the garage shop, bought a high-value gambling voucher and returned to his parked vehicle without leaving the premises.
Moments later, a gunshot was heard. When bystanders investigated, they found him unresponsive inside the car with a gunshot wound to the head. A licensed firearm, with 14 rounds still in the magazine, was recovered at the scene.
The circumstances leading up to the incident remain unclear, and police have opened an inquest docket.
Ward 14 Thulamela councillor Justice Netsianda described Maluleke as a rare talent and a pillar of the local economy.
“I received a call early that morning and rushed to the scene, only to find his mother standing there in tears. It was a heartbreaking sight. We waited together until his body was taken,” he said.
Netsianda praised the deceased’s craftsmanship, noting that Maluleke was widely sought after for major carpentry projects and often created employment opportunities for other young people.
“He was exceptionally skilled, known for his magnificent ceilings and woodwork.
We have lost not just a son, but a contributor to our community’s growth. He had a bright future ahead of him,” said Netsianda.
He further lamented the recent loss of another young entrepreneur from the area, based in Gauteng, who was shot dead, saying the community cannot afford to continue losing promising individuals.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident and appealed to anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Constable Talifhani Makhuvha, on 082 469 1397.