The village of Tshaanda outside Mutale has been left reeling after a 47-year-old woman was allegedly burnt to death in a horrific case of apparent domestic violence.
Namadzavho Bridget Naledzani, originally from Tswera outside Thohoyandou, reportedly returned to her former marital home after being separated from her 61-year-old estranged husband for a long time. Her return ended in tragedy when she allegedly died in a fire following an altercation with the man.
Mutale police have arrested the 61-year-old suspect on a charge of murder following the incident, which occurred on Tuesday, 7 July.
Vhembe police spokesperson Captain Vuledzani Dathi said preliminary investigations indicated that the deceased had returned to the family home after years of living apart from the suspect.
“She then followed the suspect to his parents’ house and returned with him. After some time, neighbours heard screams for help. When they attempted to assist, they were warned by the suspect not to enter the yard. He allegedly left the four-roomed house while it was on fire,” said Dathi.
Police and emergency services were summoned, but by the time they arrived, the flames had already engulfed the house.
“The victim was consumed by the flames and died at the scene. Police investigations led to the arrest of the suspect the following day after he had fled. He was taken to a local hospital under police guard for medical treatment as he was not in a good condition,” said Dathi.
The gruesome incident has left residents traumatised and searching for answers.
Community leader Ms Elina Ramudzuli described the tragedy as heartbreaking.
“We rushed to the scene after receiving reports of the fire, but by the time we arrived the house was completely engulfed in flames and there was nothing we could do to save her,” she said.
Ramudzuli said it remained unclear why the woman had returned after living apart from her former husband for such a long time, but noted that domestic violence could not be ruled out.
The deceased’s son, Thalukanyo Phaswana, said the family was still struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.
“As a family, we are heartbroken and confused. We never expected this to happen. People may have differences, but they should never be resolved in this way,” he said.
The suspect is expected to appear in court once he has been declared medically fit. In the meantime, Phaswana appealed for assistance to give his mother a dignified send-off. He can be contacted on 076 776 2907.