JOHANNESBURG – A 40-year-old woman from Westonaria, in the West Rand of Johannesburg, is set to be charged with murder following the deaths of her two young children. The tragic incident unfolded on 4 February when the woman allegedly poisoned herself and her children, aged three and ten.
Police were alerted to the situation by relatives who received a disturbing video message from the woman, documenting her actions. The youngest child died at the scene on the same day, while the ten-year-old succumbed to the poison in hospital on 13 February.
The mother is currently fighting for her life at Leratong Hospital. Westonaria Police Station commander, Colonel Kgomotso Netshitangani, confirmed to City Press that the woman will be arrested and charged with two counts of murder upon her recovery.
"The woman [allegedly] poisoned herself and her children with an unknown poison that she mixed with food," Netshitangani stated. "We are waiting for the forensic results to know the name of it. She is charged with two counts of murder."
Colonel Netshitangani revealed that evidence of intent of death was found at the scene, but declined to provide further details, citing the ongoing investigation. She did confirm that this was the first case of its kind in the Borwa area. The motive behind the woman's actions remains unknown.
Neighbours disclosed to City Press that the woman worked as a hairdresser in a local salon.
Gauteng health department spokesperson, Motalatale Modiba, confirmed that police investigations were ongoing. Modiba added that the department could not comment on the mother's condition, respecting her right to privacy.
The family of the deceased children have declined to comment on the matter, stating they did not wish to speak to the media.
