Giyani man arrested over the killing of his 82-year-old mother

Police in Giyani, Limpopo, have arrested a 48-year-old man suspected of killing his 82-year-old mother. The South African Police Services (SAPS) said the alleged murder occurred at Xikukwani Village in the early hours of Wednesday, 23 September.

Report and discovery

Police received a report of the incident at around 1am and proceeded to the identified residence. Upon arrival they found the elderly woman’s body lying on a bed with visible injuries to her head and face. Emergency Medical Services personnel declared her dead at the scene.

Suspect and preliminary findings

In a statement, SAPS said preliminary investigations revealed the deceased had been living with her son. The son is alleged to have been the person who initially reported the incident.

According to the account given to police, the son told officers he had just returned from a drinking spree during the early hours of Wednesday when he found his mother lying on the bed with injuries to her face.

Charges and further investigation

Police said they commenced an investigation, linked the son to the murder and subsequently arrested him. He is facing a charge of murder.

SAPS further stated investigators are still looking into the circumstances surrounding the suspicion that the deceased might have been sexually assaulted. An additional charge of rape could be added if evidence supports it.

Court appearance

The suspect is expected to appear before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 25 September.