The Vhembe District is reeling after a series of suicides reported this week, prompting concern from local authorities and communities.
Among the cases is the death of former Ward 8 Thulamela Councillor Rudzani Mathambo. Another prominent figure, Sgt Tshilisanani Repeat Phalanndwa (36) of Dumasi, outside Thohoyandou, was found hanging in an outside room at her home.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 5 October, at 08:50.
Although Phalanndwa is reported to have left a note, asking her mother to take care of her children, the circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident and said an inquest docket had been opened.
"The police were called by the family after they discovered the deceased hanging from the roof. In trying to save her, the mother cut the rope she was hanging from, but she was already dead," he said.