Tebogo Msimanga |
The two men were stoned to death and their bodies burned by community members at Tshavhalovhedzi village outside Thohoyandou. Reports suggest that three suspects allegedly robbed a 23 year-old woman of her cellphone and other belongings at the local Plaza. They then attempted to kidnap her in full view of the bystanders but hastily left her and drove off after she screamed for help.
Limpopo Police Spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said community members gave chase and caught up with the robbers after they made an accident. “Two were killed and the third one was rescued by the police and arrested. Their motor vehicle was also torched.”
Mojapelo added that community members proceeded to surround the police station, demanding his release but Public Order Police members were activated to contain the situation. The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe is strongly warning community members to desist from engaging in acts of vigilantism and mob attacks.
“The tendency of some community members to take the law into their own hands will be dealt with mercilessly and those responsible will be hunted down and brought to book.” Concluded Lieutenant General Hadebe.
Cases of robbery, attempted kidnapping, two counts of murder and malicious damage to property will be opened. The robbery and attempted kidnapping suspect will appear before the Siloam Magistrate court soon.
