One Dead After Community Assaults Suspected House Robbers in Motetema

The police in Motetema, Limpopo, are investigating an incident in which two male suspects allegedly attempting to commit a house robbery.

The duo was assaulted by community members, resulting in one suspect succumbing to injuries while the other remains in hospital under police guard.

Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the incident occurred on January 4, around 21h30, at rental rooms in Manapyane village.

“It is alleged that three victims, two females and one male, were accosted inside a room by the suspects wearing a balaclavas and allegedly armed with a firearm. [They] demanded money and cellphones. One of the victims managed to escape and alerted community members, who responded and apprehended two suspects,” said Mashaba in a statement.

Mashaba said the suspects were allegedly assaulted and sustained serious injuries. They were transported to a local hospital for medical attention, where one later succumbed to the injuries.

“Police have opened cases of attempted house robbery and murder,” added Mashaba.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers has condemned acts of mob justice and urges communities to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, but instead allow police to deal with criminal activities within the confines of the law.

Anyone with information that may assist with investigations is urged to contact investigating officer Constable Malesela Galane on 082 573 3978 or contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPSApp.

Police investigations continue.