Tebogo Msimanga |
The Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the brutal killing of a 53-year-old man during a mob justice attack that took place on Sunday 16 April 2023 at Humulani Village in Lulekani policing precinct outside Phalaborwa.
Limpopo Police Spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the police responded to a complaint of assault at the Maphuthuma hospital in Namakgale policing area. “Upon arrival, they found the victim with severe injuries throughout his body. Unfortunately, the victim later succumbed to the injuries. He was identified as Mozambican national Andries Zitha aged 53”.
Colonel Ledwaba said a case of murder was then opened and police started the investigation. “Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was brought to the hospital by a group of livestock owners who allegedly assaulted him after they accused him of stealing and killing their livestock”.
He added that the police conducted further investigation and cow meat believed to be from the stolen livestock was recovered at the deceased’s homestead and in the bushes. A case of stock theft was consequently opened against the deceased.
Police appeal to anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact the Branch Commander Captain Shadrack Dlamini on 082 468 8639 or call the crime stop number 0860010111.
