Bulawayo – Police in Bulawayo are investigating the tragic suicide of an 18-year-old man who reportedly took his own life after being confronted about allegedly impregnating his cousin.
The incident has cast a pall over the Cowdray Park suburb, where the young man, identified as Meluleki Sibanda, resided with his family. Bulawayo police acting spokesperson, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, confirmed the details of the case.
According to Inspector Msebele, the events leading to the tragedy unfolded on February 21st. “On February 21 this year, Sibanda’s father confronted him over the allegation that he had impregnated his cousin and promised to settle the matter with other family members and the police,” she stated.
The confrontation appears to have had a devastating impact on the young man. Later that same evening, the family retired to bed. “On the same day at around 10pm, the family retired to bed. Early in the morning at around 6am, the deceased’s father woke up, got outside the house and discovered that Sibanda was hanging from a mango tree near their gate and was already dead,” Msebele said.
The discovery of Sibanda’s body prompted an immediate report to the police. His body was subsequently taken to Mpilo Central Hospital mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
The incident has raised concerns about how families handle sensitive and potentially volatile situations. Inspector Msebele urged parents and guardians to exercise caution when dealing with such serious issues. “Meanwhile, Msebele has urged parents and guardians to cautiously deal with such serious issues without inducing fear in those involved to avoid such incidents,” she said.
