MATATSHE – The Thohoyandou police are investigating two cases of culpable homicide, following two separate incidents that took place in the area over the past weekend.

The first incident took place at the Matatshe Prison bus stop along the Sibasa to Vhufuli road on Saturday morning, at about 11:30.

According to the police spokesperson in the Vhembe Area, Capt Ailwei Mushavhanamadi, it is alleged that Mrs Pandelani Tshavhungwe Musetsho (48) was crossing the road when a speeding taxi minibus knocked her over. Members of the emergency services were called, only to certify the victim dead.

She was a resident of Vondwe village and was, according to the police statement, on her way back home after paying a visit to a relative, who is an inmate at the Matatshe Prison.

In the other incident, a taxi minibus also knocked down Mpho Ndou, an eight-year old girl of Malamangwa village, on Sunday. The incident took place at the Muraga bus terminus along the Thohoyandou - Punda Maria road at about 14:00.

The statement indicates that the deceased was in the company of her parents when the incident occurred. They were returning from attending a church service. While crossing the road, the little girl allegedly remained behind and the speeding taxi minibus knocked her down. She died on the spot.