TONGAAT KZN, Police have identified the father and two young children found dead at a home in the Belvedere area of Tongaat on Tuesday as 37-year-old Leon Munsamy and his daughters, Emilia Munsamy and Elana Munsamy.
Authorities are investigating the deaths as an apparent murder-suicide. The incident occurred at a residence in Shastri Circle, where emergency services were called after reports of three unresponsive individuals inside the home.
According to police, the incident allegedly followed a domestic dispute between Munsamy and his wife. Investigators allege that after the argument, Munsamy purchased a toxic substance and mixed it into food consumed by the children. The two girls, aged four and six, reportedly ate the food and later died. Munsamy was subsequently found deceased inside the home in what authorities believe was a suicide.
Emergency responders from KZN VIP Emergency Medical Services were among the first on the scene. Paramedics assessed the three individuals and declared them deceased. The exact timeline and official causes of death remain subject to forensic examination.
Prem Balram, spokesperson for Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), said the organization received a call for assistance at approximately 1:49 p.m. after concerns were raised about three unresponsive individuals at the residence. Reaction officers arrived and found police and other emergency services already present.
Unconfirmed reports suggest that the children’s scholar transport service provider raised the alarm when the girls did not come out for collection, prompting concern that led to the discovery inside the home.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Authorities have emphasized that details remain preliminary as the investigation is ongoing.
The incident has deeply affected the Tongaat community, with many expressing sorrow over the loss of the two young children.
Police stated that additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
