The peaceful and close-knit community of Hamakushu in the Nzhelele area is in the grip of panic and fear after the mysterious abduction and subsequent murder of a local man.
Mr Karel Muthakure (31), a well-known local carpenter who also performed as a DJ at the local tavern, was abducted by unknown men while on his way home from the tavern.
The incident occurred on Friday evening, 6 June, at around 22:00.
Information circulating in the area is that Muthakure, accompanied by a few friends, had just left the tavern when they were accosted by four men travelling in three luxury cars.
It is alleged that the other people managed to flee, but Muthakure, who appeared to be the main target, was forced at gunpoint into one of the vehicles. The suspects then drove off with him.
Muthakure's badly burnt body was discovered on a gravel road near the Nzhelele Dam on Sunday at about 14:50. The body was burnt beyond recognition.
A local community leader, Mr Moses Maluleke, said the incident had sent shockwaves through the community, with many fearing who might be next.
"We are in shock. This is the type of incident we never expected could happen here. We are in panic and there is no information about the mysterious incident — all we have are speculations. We no longer feel safe after this and have many unanswered questions," he said.
Maluleke said that after Muthakure had gone missing on Friday night, the leadership had advised the family to open a missing-person case, which they did.
"We do not know why he was killed, and we urge residents to be cautious about strange cars and vehicles in the village. We are also advising residents not to venture out alone at night. As a community, we are planning to hold a meeting where issues of crime will be discussed. Hopefully, we will chart the way forward and come up with solutions to fight crime," Maluleke said.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident, saying a murder case had been opened. "We have launched a manhunt for the suspects, who are unknown at this stage. Any information that may assist the police with leads as to the whereabouts of the suspects can be directed to the investigating officer, Lt-Col Musiiwa Dzagana, on (082) 565-7729," he said.