According to a reliable source the deceased was found dead and in a decomposed state with a 9mm pistol on his bed by his wife when she returned from being with her relatives over the festive season.

The police and Community Police Forum were contacted and they arrived at the scene and declared it a crime scene at around 20:00.

The PHALABORWA HERALD contacted the South African Army Infantry Battalion (7SAI) and they confirmed that a member of theirs was found dead.

The Phalaborwa police told the HERALD that they will release an official statement on Wednesday.

More to follow as information becomes available…