The dead bodies of a Butterworth mother and her three kids were discovered in their rondavel on Sunday morning at Tholeni village.
A friend found the bodies of Bongeka Buso’s three girls on the floor and her body hanging from the roof.
Oratile, age 5, and Orabile, age 8, appeared to have been poisoned. The body of the oldest daughter, who had a knife in her neck, was discovered lying on the floor next to the bed.
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Colonel Priscilla Naidu, a police spokesman, said that poverty may have been a factor in the suicide.
“It is suspected that the two younger children were poisoned. The motive for the deaths is not known, however, it is suspected that it could have been driven by poverty,” Naidu said.
Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene has expressed sadness and concern following the deaths.
“It is a deeply concerning and heartbreaking issue that women facing poverty can be driven to such despair. Social challenges can make them more susceptible to mental health issues. Addressing poverty and promoting mental health support is crucial to prevent such tragedies,” Mene said.
“As we commemorate Women’s Month, I urge women to raise their voices and speak up. It is crucial to address the problems quickly rather than waiting until they become more difficult to resolve.”
