More than four months have now passed since the discovery of Tshililo Kwinda's body, and still the family members are waiting for the forensic investigations to be concluded, so that they can bury his remains.
The 43-year-old Kwinda, from Dzimauli-Tshapasha in Ha-Rammbuda in the Mutale area, was reported missing on 5 May this year. His decomposing body was found by a local woman chopping wood in the nearby bushes on 27 May, and an inquest was opened.
The local villagers believed that Kwinda might have been the victim of a ritual killing, but that has not been confirmed by the police yet. According to the family, they still have not received any word from the police regarding their investigation. As far they know, no-one has been arrested in connection with Kwinda's death either.
"We keep asking the police, but they never give us any clear answers on the matter. Until they finish their investigation, there is no way forward for us. If they can just release his remains, we can give him a dignified funeral and our hearts as family members will be consoled," said the distraught mother, Ms Elisa Kwinda.
Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the family and community members must understand that determining the cause of death usually takes time. He confirmed that the forensic investigation in this case is still underway.