10-year-old girl left with Uncle commits su!cide

In a devastating incident, the city of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe is grappling with the tragic death of 10-year-old Nomvelo Phumuzile Mqhele, who reportedly died by suicide in her family home in Pumula South. 

The heartbreaking event occurred while her uncle, who had been babysitting, briefly left the house.

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, confirmed that no visible injuries were found on Nomvelo’s body, nor was there any suicide note, leaving the reasons for her actions unclear. The authorities have yet to determine what may have led to the tragedy.

This shocking incident comes just days after the belated observance of World Mental Health Day, highlighting the critical need for increased attention to child safety and mental well-being. In response, the police have issued a public appeal to parents and guardians, urging them to maintain close communication with their children and to be vigilant about any signs of distress or mental health challenges.