Couple dies in house fire after an alleged dispute

LIMPOPO – On Sunday (December 18) a couple died in their house in Madimbo village in the Vhembe District, which was set alight.

“The motive for the incident will be determined by the unfolding investigations, but domestic violence cannot be ruled out as the couple allegedly had an argument the previous night,” Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed in a statement.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the man (38) sent his son to a filling station to buy petrol for the house’s generator.

When the son returned the man once again sent him away to buy food.

As the son got back from his errands he saw his home engulfed in flames with concerned community members witnessing the scene.

The police arrived on the scene and learned that a couple was trapped inside the burning house.

The couple, who both worked as social workers at the Limpopo Department of Social Development, perished in the fire.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe warned the community against resorting to violence when they find themselves confronted with issues in their relationships.

“It is inexcusable to continue losing lives in this fashion where individuals who find themselves in the midst of domestic challenges, resort to extreme measures that involve taking lives. We urge all people in similar situations to seek professional assistance from relevant structures,” Hadebe added.

Police investigations continue as an inquest docket has been opened.