Police in Tshilwavhusiku have launched a manhunt following a mob justice incident that left a 40-year-old man critically injured in Ravele village. The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday.
According to police, officers responded to a complaint at about 00:35 on 3 April. On arrival, they found the victim, a resident of Riverside in Ravele, with severe head injuries after he had allegedly been assaulted by members of the community.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the man had been accused of attempting to rape an elderly woman shortly before the attack. The allegations appear to have sparked outrage among residents, leading to the assault.
Emergency Medical Services transported the injured man to hospital, where he is receiving treatment.
Police have opened a case of attempted murder. The suspects involved in the attack have not yet been identified, and investigations are ongoing.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the incident and warned against acts of vigilantism.
“We call on community members to allow the law to take its course and report criminal activities to the police,” she said.
Authorities have urged anyone with information that could assist in identifying or locating the suspects to come forward. Members of the public can contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Eulanda Maloa, on 082 319 9597 or report anonymously via the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPSApp.