Police investigate double murder near Louis Trichardt

LIMPOPO – Cases of murder and inquest are under investigation by Waterval police after the discovery of two bodies at a house in Nwaxinyamani village.

A statement by police spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo indicated that the bodies of Thoko Rikhotso (41) and her alleged boyfriend were found at midday on Friday (August 20). 

“It is alleged that the deceased female was at her parents’ homestead when her alleged boyfriend, only known as Emmanuel of Waterval location, arrived. The two were seen entering the house and after a few minutes, a sound similar to that of a gun was reportedly heard,” Mojapelo explained.

He added that smoke was seen coming out of the house.

“Members of the public went to assist but the fire was too strong to put out. Both deceased were burned beyond recognition. The motive for the incident is not known at this stage but ongoing investigations suggest the two had domestic challenges,” Mojapelo said.

The incident comes in the wake of the discovery of a partially burnt body of woman outside Westenburg. 

Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe has ordered a full probe into the circumstances that led to these incidents.

“We are currently experiencing sporadic incidents of violent deaths in which women are the primary victims. Just three days back, the partially burnt body of a still to be identified woman in her twenties was found on the outskirts of Polokwane with her limbs tied. This should be concerning to all law abiding citizens of this province. We urge everyone to resort to legal means including making use of available platforms when confronted with domestic or relationship challenges,” concluded Hadebe.

Mojapelo said a post-mortem will be conducted to determine the cause of death.