Man (59) commits suicide by hanging over son's burial

A HEATED argument over the burial place of a family member among relatives ended tragically after the deceased's 59-year-old father committed suicide.

Police confirmed that Fungayi Njanji of Makandi Estate in Chimanimani committed suicide by hanging on April 26.

It is alleged that Njanji had an argument with his sons and wives over the burial of Munorwei Njanji who had died a few days before at Chipinge District Hospital.

"A war of words erupted between the parties at a family meeting they held before they went to collect the body from Chipinge District Hospital mortuary for burial.

"His relatives were demanding that Munorweyi should be buried in Ngaone in Chief Mutema's area, while Njanji was adamant that his son should be buried at Makandi where he worked until his death," said Chipinge District police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Kadzuraumera.

He said after the meeting, his wife asked Njanji about a piece of rope she saw hidden in his pocket.

"Njanji did not leave for Chipinge with others, but instead went into a nearby Gumtree plantation where he hanged himself with a piece of rope. His son, Phillip teamed up with other neighbours to look for Njanji. They found his body hanging from a tree.

"Investigations are in progress and no foul play is suspected," said Asst Insp Kadzuraumera.