The family of Rachel Simasiku, who was allegedly killed by her husband on Sunday, expressed frustration over the police's delayed response despite the station being just metres from the house where the incident occurred.

Family members and neighbours said they made distress calls to the police, as they were locked out of the house while hearing Simasiku scream until her voice suddenly stopped.

Annety Simataa, Simasiku's sister, said, "They did not come; they said they do not have transport, but today that culprit who killed my sister, they have to give him transport to transport him from the court to the jail cell."

She added, "We had to use my elder sister's car; we had to load her, and we followed each other. They did nothing, but the moment she died, all of them came. Cars were available, so I'm seriously disappointed with our justice and the way they do things."

Katima Mulilo Station Commander Chrispin Mayumbelo explained that police responded promptly but were delayed trying to locate the house.

Simataa told NBC News the ten-year relationship was marked by abuse, and police never assisted despite multiple reports.

"We reported twice; I brought her here twice, but when we arrived, police officers insisted my sister should not open a case because they said GBV cases apparently don't result in bail, as if they were protecting him from arrest," she said.

Police maintain there are no records of prior abuse cases involving Simasiku.

Simasiku's grandfather described her as a breadwinner caring for him, her grandmother, and other family members.

The suspect, 44-year-old Steven Naruseb, who initially fled, surrendered to authorities on Monday. He appeared in court, charged with murder read with domestic violence, was denied bail, and the matter was remanded to 22 April next year.

Simasiku leaves behind two children.