TRIBUTES continue to pour in for a local businesswoman who was murdered in her guesthouse in uMhlanga on Tuesday night (October 27).

Police say they suspect Madelein Pelliccia (61) was suffocated using a pillow in the incident on Cordia Crescent, Herrwood Park.

No arrests have yet been made but a case of murder has been opened at the Durban North police station.

In a post through the family business Instagram page Amici Cafe, her family paid tribute to her, saying she would “be loved and missed beyond words”.

Related story: Guesthouse owner murdered in uMhlanga

“The heart and mom of our Amici family. We are simply at a loss for words. It is with the deepest sadness and the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of our beloved Madelein Pelliccia. Our Amici family has endured unimaginable heartbreak and loss over the past six months. There are simply no words that can express the pain of what we have gone through.

“During this incredibly difficult time, we ask our wonderful Amici community to please continue showing your love, kindness and support to the family. Every visit, every kind word and every gesture of love means more than you could ever know,” the post on Instagram read.

dylanluizinho replied: “I pray Amici’s name lives on forever carrying the spirit of the Pelliccia Family name eternally! They’ve left a whole in the hearts of so many they’ve touched with their special souls invested in special businesses in KZN. A family of faith, tradition, culture, work ethic and massive SPIRIT!..”

chantalridgway: “Such a heart breaking loss of a lovely lady. Thoughts and prayers are with you Biaggo and with all who knew and loved your Mom. May she rest in peace”

This is the second incident at an uMhlanga guesthouse within 24 hours, with another incident reported on Ridge Road on Monday morning (October 26).

In that case a suspect, linked to other break-in and theft incidents in the lower La Lucia and uMhlanga areas, was arrested.

He was found with clothing valued at approximately R12 000, and more than R3500 in cash concealed in his pockets and socks.

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