By Anita Dangazele
The bodies of a Butterworth mother and her three daughters were found in their rondavel at Tholeni village on Sunday morning.
A friend discovered Bongeka Buso’s body hanging from the roof, with the bodies of her three daughters lying on the floor.
The two youngest ones, Oratile, aged five, and Orabile, aged eight, appeared to have been poisoned. Anathi Buso, 14, the eldest daughter’s body was found lying on the floor next to the bed with a knife in her neck.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the suicide could have been driven by poverty.
“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.”
Pictured above: Illustration Image
