ORKNEY – An eight-year-old has died at the hands of her uncle, who then took his own life.

North West police are investigating a murder and inquest after the man (23) stabbed his young niece to death before committing suicide on Monday (15 June) in Kanana, near Orkney.

The motive for the incident remains unknown and investigations are continuing, police said.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of North West, Major General Ryno Naidoo, said no child should ever become a victim of violence, particularly at the hands of a family member.

He said the incident, which occurred just a day before Youth Day, serves as a reminder that violence in homes and communities continues to rob innocent people of their lives.

“This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder that violence in our homes and communities continues to rob innocent people of their lives,” Naidoo said.

He called upon families and communities to remain vigilant and to seek assistance when signs of emotional distress, conflict or abuse become apparent.

Naidoo said Gender-Based Violence and related forms of domestic violence remain a societal crisis that requires a collective response from all sectors of society.