10-year-old girl commits su!cide in Zimbabwe
The city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe is reeling from the tragic loss of 10-year-old Nomvelo Phumuzile Mqhele, who reportedly took her own life while under the care of her family in Pumula South.
The devastating incident unfolded while her uncle, who was supervising, momentarily stepped away from the home.
According to police reports, Nomvelo had been left in the care of her 18-year-old uncle, who stepped out to visit friends, leaving the young girl and her two-year-old sibling alone. Upon his return, he made the grim discovery of Nomvelo hanging from a roof truss, using a rope, plastic chair, and a 20-litre container. Her younger sibling was found crying beside the tragic scene.
Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele, the deputy police spokesperson for Bulawayo, has confirmed that there were no visible injuries on Nomvelo’s body, and no suicide note has been discovered, complicating the understanding of her actions and motives. The investigation into the tragedy is ongoing.
This tragic event has occurred days after the commemoration of World Mental Health Day, underscoring the pressing need for increased focus on the safety and mental well-being of children. In light of this, the police have issued a public appeal to parents and guardians, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with their children and being watchful for any signs of distress or issues related to mental health.