KATIMA MULILO – A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Mashosho village in Kongola between Friday and Saturday when an eight-year-old boy, Tapelo Liyemo, was found dead by suicide.

According to police reports, Liyemo, a Grade 2 learner at Kongola Combined School, had returned home from school around 13h30. 

“He was looking for food, but found that his younger brother had finished the relish, leaving only pap. His mother instructed him to gather mutete (wild spinach) to cook, which may have upset him, though she did not realise the extent of his emotions,” Kisco Sitali said.

Later that day, Liyemo disappeared. His mother assumed he had gone to visit friends, and was unaware of any immediate cause for concern. 

However, by Saturday, the tragic reality became clear when the police received a report from his uncle about a suicide case in the village.

Upon arriving at the scene around 13h34 that day, police found family members gathered near the area where Liyemo had taken his own life. He was discovered approximately 51 metres from the house, hanging from a tree with a traditional rope he had made himself.

Sitali confirmed no suicide note was found, neither foul play is suspected. An inquest has been registered as investigations continue.

In unrelated devastating news, a lightning strike claimed the life of a young girl in Mashosho village on Friday evening.

Likanyi Rosemary Mathieu, a 16-year-old, was standing under a tree with others when she was fatally struck by lightning at approximately 18h30. Fortunately, the other individuals present were unharmed.

It is alleged the girl was struck by lightning in Sinai area while playing cards under a tree.

Trying to save Mathieu, her family rushed her to Choi Clinic, where a nurse confirmed her passing. Zambezi police spokesperson Kisco Sitali confirmed her next of kin have been informed.

“This was a tragic and unfortunate incident. We urge members of the public to take caution during thunderstorms and avoid seeking shelter under trees, which can attract lightning strikes,” he cautioned.

-anakale@nepc.com.na