Friday, October 18, 2024 - In a devastating incident, the city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe is grappling with the tragic death of 10-year-old Nomvelo Phumuzile Mqhele, who reportedly died by suicide in her family home in Pumula South.
The heartbreaking event occurred while her
uncle, who had been babysitting, briefly left the house.
According to police reports, Nomvelo had
been left in the care of her 18-year-old uncle, who stepped out to visit
friends, leaving the young girl and her two-year-old sibling alone. Upon his
return, he made the grim discovery of Nomvelo hanging from a roof truss, using
a rope, plastic chair, and a 20-litre container. Her younger sibling was found
crying beside the tragic scene.
Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the deputy police spokesperson for
Bulawayo, confirmed that no visible injuries were found on Nomvelo’s body, nor
was there any suicide note, leaving the reasons for her actions unclear. The
authorities have yet to determine what may have led to the tragedy.
This shocking incident comes just days
after the belated observance of World Mental Health Day, highlighting the
critical need for increased attention to child safety and mental well-being. In
response, the police have issued a public appeal to parents and guardians,
urging them to maintain close communication with their children and to be
vigilant about any signs of distress or mental health challenges.
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