Police in Polokwane have opened cases of murder and inquest following an incident in which a Limpopo Doctor shot and killed his wife and then turned the gun on himself.
The 35-year-old medical Doctor was attached to Donald Frazer hospital in Thohoyandou. His 32-year-old wife, also a Doctor, is attached to the Provincial Hospital in Polokwane. The incident happened at Thornhill Estate in Polokwane on Monday, 27 March 2023.
The bodies of the deceased were reportedly found by a family member who arrived from Vembe in the afternoon.
LIMPOPO DOCTOR KILLS WIFE FOLLOWING AN ARGUMENT
Preliminary Police investigations revealed that the couple had a fight earlier in the day and in the afternoon. The woman was then allegedly shot dead by her husband who thereafter turned the gun on himself. The deceased was identified as Dr Tshimangadzo Muofhe and her husband Dr Mainfred Shikwambane.
The motive for the incident is unknown at this stage but domestic violence cannot be ruled out.
DR PHOPHI RAMATHUBA SEND CONDOLENCES
MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba was on the scene with the families of the deceased, described their death as an immense loss.
“This is a sad day for me and the entire department, we are devastated,” she said.
“Losing such hardworking, dedicated, and promising young people is a blow for us as the department. Dr Shikwambana, prior to his permanent appointment, he served for two years as an Acting Clinical Manager for Donald Fraser Hospital.
Also read: Health department raises concerns over switching off electricity supply
“He managed to turn the hospital around from leading in maternal death in the Vhembe district to recording zero. He continued sustaining his excellent performance in clinical governance leading to us giving him the responsibility to act as the overall head of the institution at the beginning of this month,” added Dr Ramathuba.
“On the other hand his wife Dr Tshimangadzo Muofhe will be missed by her colleagues and patients in the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of Pietersburg hospital. Her dedication and commitment when it comes to protecting pregnant women and their unborn children. Death has once more stolen the best amongst us. On behalf of the department of health we send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, colleagues. May their departed souls rest in peace,” said MEC Ramathuba.
