Limpopo village in mourning after discovery of missing chief
Chief Matodzi Ramabulana was reported missing on September 2 and his disappearance prompted an extensive search involving the police, relatives, and the community.
LIMPOPO – The rural village of Khakhanwa, under the Mulenzhe Traditional Council, is in mourning after the tragic death of its leader, chief Matodzi Ramabulana.
His decomposed body was discovered in the bushes near Khakhanwa on November 14.
Ramabulana, who was reported missing on September 2, had left home early that morning.
His disappearance prompted an extensive search involving the police, relatives, and the community.
The search ended with the grim discovery by local hunters who alerted the community and police.
According to WO Vuledzani Dathi, acting SAPS spokesperson in Vhembe, preliminary investigations revealed no foul play.
Ramabulana’s cellphone, along with an electrical cable, was also recovered at the scene.
The case, initially registered as a missing person’s report, has now been converted to an inquest to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.
Makhadzi Asiothe Ramabulana, the sister of the late chief, expressed the family’s distress and devastation.
Chief Matodzi, who had been crowned alongside her in September 2014, was described as a pillar of strength for their family and the community.
“Since our father, Chief Nthakheni Ramabulana passed away in 2010, Matodzi took on the responsibility of supporting his siblings financially. Now, we are left wondering who will support his children, including one who is still a university student,” she lamented.
The Mulenzhe Traditional Council, led by Thovhele Nkhaneni Ramovha, is equally shocked by the loss. They praised Ramabulana’s work and dedication to the development of Khakhanwa and the larger Ramabulana clan.
The police have urged anyone with information that could assist in their investigation to contact Captain Sydney Dama at 082 469 1035.
