The medical profession in Limpopo has been dealt a terrible blow, following the death of two well-known doctors. The married couple’s deaths appear to have stemmed from yet another tragic case of domestic violence, where the husband shot and killed his wife, then turned the gun on himself.

Dr Tshimangadzo Muofhe (32) was attached to the Provincial Hospital in Polokwane, while her husband, Dr Mainfred Shikwambane (35), was attached to the Donald Frazer Hospital in Thohoyandou.

According to Limpopo police spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo, the incident happened at the Thornhill Estate in Polokwane on Monday, 27 March. The bodies of the deceased were reportedly found by family members who arrived from Vhembe that afternoon.

Preliminary police investigations revealed that the couple had had a fight earlier that day. Muofhe was allegedly shot by Shikwambane, who then turned the gun on himself. Mojapelo said that although the motive for the incident was still unknown at this stage, domestic violence could not be ruled out. The police in Polokwane have opened a murder docket and inquest.

Shikwambana’s elder brother, Mr Thomas Shikwambana, said the family members were devastated by the death of the couple. “We have lost a jewel and exemplary young man in my brother. It is quite a sad and sombre week for all of us in the family as we are trying to come to terms with his passing. But we believe that God will help us through to give him a befitting send-off,” he said.

Muofhe’s younger sister, Ms Dowelani Muofhe, from Maniini Block Q, said her family was also still trying to come to terms with their grief.

In a statement, the Limpopo Department of Health said that it was saddened by the passing of two of their finest medical doctors. “This truly is a sad day for me and the entire department. We are devastated. Losing such hardworking, dedicated and promising medical experts is a terrible blow for the department,” said the MEC for Health, Dr Phophi Ramathuba.

Dr Muofhe was working at the obstetrics and gynaecology department at the Provincial Hospital in Polokwane, while Dr Shikwambana was acting clinical manager at the Donald Fraser Hospital in Thohoyandou.