By Patience Gondo
A 63-year-old man from Hwunga Village in Zezani has been found dead in a suspected case of suicide, with his brother revealing he had long struggled with loneliness, family separation and unresolved personal losses.
The deceased Ephraim Tlou was discovered hanging at his homestead by his younger brother, Sipho Tlou, who also reported the matter to the police.
Sipho Tlou told the police that Emphraim Tlou had increasingly shown signs of emotional distress over the years, particularly following the death of his wife, which left him living alone.
His brother, Sipho Tlou also told police that the late Tlou often spoke about the emotional burden of being separated from his two sons, who left for South Africa several years ago and have not returned home since.
He reportedly expressed fear that he would never see them again, a matter which might have caused him significant distress.
Relatives also said Tlou had been troubled by the loss of his cattle, which were stolen some years back, leaving him with long-standing financial and emotional strain. Combined with his solitude, these unresolved issues had reportedly deepened his feelings of hopelessness.
Matabeleland South Provincial Police Spokesperson Chiratidzo Dube confirmed the incident and said the matter is under police investigation.