- body was found decomposed
Maun Police have confirmed that the 44-year-old woman whose decomposed body was discovered in Thito ward, Maun, died of natural causes following investigations and post-mortem findings conducted at the scene.
Confirming the incident, Maun Station Commander, Superintendent Joseph Lepodise, said police received a report from the deceased’s uncle, a 67-year-old man, who had raised concern after failing to establish her whereabouts for several days. The uncle reportedly went to check on his niece at her home, where he found her lying on the floor inside the house.
“He stated that when they tried calling her from the window, there was no response, and she appeared lifeless,” said Lepodise.
Police officers were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they forced open the door and discovered the body of the woman, which was already in an advanced state of decomposition. Lepodise explained that due to the condition of the body, officers were unable to remove it immediately.
“The body was badly decomposed, and police had to leave it at the scene. We returned the following day with pathologists, who conducted examinations at the house,” he said.
According to the Station Commander, medical experts concluded that the deceased had suffered a heart attack and had died several days before she was discovered. The findings ruled out any form of foul play, and police have since closed the case.
The discovery had initially caused anxiety among residents of Thito ward, with speculation circulating due to the advanced decomposition of the body. However, the confirmation of natural causes has since brought relief to the community.
Lepodise noted that the deceased was living alone at her home in Thito ward at the time of her death, a factor that contributed to the delay in discovering her condition.
He used the incident to caution members of the public about the risks associated with living alone, particularly without close contact with neighbours or relatives.
“Staying alone can be dangerous, especially in cases of medical emergencies,” Lepodise warned. “It is important for people to know their neighbours and maintain good relationships, as this can help prevent such situations or ensure timely assistance.”
Police have also urged families to regularly check on relatives who live alone and encouraged communities to look out for one another. The deceased was later given to the family for burial following guidance from health authorities, given the state of the body.
