Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Jackie Macie has urged families facing domestic and relationship difficulties to seek professional help following a deadly incident in the Calcutta policing area.
In a statement issued on 11 October, the department said a couple had allegedly sought help from family members to resolve a dispute. While discussions took place at the woman's home, the man allegedly retrieved a firearm from his vehicle and shot the woman and her mother before shooting himself.
Police are investigating two counts of murder and an inquest.
Macie encouraged people facing relationship crises to speak to social workers and other trained professionals, and urged families not to ignore warning signs of abuse or escalating conflict.
“Families must seek help before it is too late, before they pay with their own lives,” Macie said.
The incident highlights the ongoing concern about gender-based violence and femicide in Mpumalanga. The department urged those in distress to seek help, rather than wait until a conflict escalates.
Assistance is available through the GBVF Command Centre on 0800 428 428, People Opposed to Women Abuse (POWA) on 0800 150 150, and SAPS emergency services on 10111.