The family of a well-known bricklayer, who was killed last week, is pleading with the court not to grant bail to his alleged killer. The late Mr Freddy Ngwana (64) was allegedly murdered by his wife in what is believed to be a case of domestic violence.
The incident occurred at Tshivhilidulu Phomolong on Thursday, 18 January. The suspect is said to have used an unknown object to kill her husband. His body was discovered near a goat kraal with multiple wounds, and an old car rim was reportedly found next to it.
It is alleged that the incident took place at around 17:00 but was only reported to the authorities at approximately 22:00.
The late man's daughter, Ms Livhuwani Ngwana, expressed her anguish, saying the suspect had destroyed their family. "When this woman came into my father's life, everything changed. She did not want to hear a thing about us and managed to chase us away after selling my father's house and relocating. We are in so much pain as a family. Justice should take its course and keep her in jail," she said.
Family member Ms Salphina Siriba said her cousin had endured a life of suffering after marrying the woman. "He was always complaining about the abuse he faced. She even convinced him to sell his property, and they relocated to another village where the abuse continued. He told us she warned him that he would leave the house with only a jacket or in a coffin. Imagine being told that after using his money to build a new home. This woman broke our hearts, and we are in deep pain as a family. We are praying that the court denies her bail and keeps her in custody, until the case is finalised," she said.
Vhembe police spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident. "A 52-year-old woman, the wife of the deceased, has been arrested after being interrogated by the police. A murder case has been registered," he said.
The suspect, identified as Ms Livhuwani Nengovhela (52), appeared in court on Monday, 20 January. She was charged with murder, and the case was postponed to 5 February for further investigations and a possible bail application.