‘He told his uncle he killed them’: Man burns wife and kids to death before taking poison
Police in Mpumalanga are investigating a horrific case in which a man allegedly killed his wife and two young children before setting them alight inside a vehicle at Boekehouthoek, Kwaggafontein.
Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed the incident, which took place on Friday.
The victims have been identified by police as Lucia Thembisile Mashiyane (32) and her two children, Bokamoso, 7, and Karabo Ngele, 4.
Police were alerted after the suspect’s uncle contacted them in the early hours of Friday, informing officers that his nephew had confessed to killing his family and setting them alight at Zithabiseni Bridge.
When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered a charred vehicle containing the severely burned remains of the mother and her children.
A 72-hour activation plan was immediately launched to expedite investigations and track down the suspect, aged 37.
According to police, a tip-off later led officers to the suspect’s grandparents’ home in Boekehouthoek, where they found him foaming at the mouth.
An ambulance was called, but he was declared dead at the scene. Preliminary investigations suggest that he ingested poison.
Police have opened three counts of murder and an inquest docket.
Meanwhile, provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has condemned the killings in the strongest terms, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and avoidable.
“We are deeply saddened and angered by this brutal act. Domestic violence is a serious societal problem that must be addressed through lawful and professional channels — not through acts of violence,” said Mkhwanazi.
He urged community members to seek help when facing family or relationship difficulties.
“We appeal to anyone experiencing abuse, anger, or distress to reach out to law enforcement or social services for help. No situation should ever end in such tragedy,” Mkhwanazi added.
Police investigations continue.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News