In Vhembe, incidents of mob justice are rapidly escalating, with frustrated communities choosing to take the law into their own hands when dealing with suspected criminals.
Two weeks ago, enraged residents apprehended and assaulted a 25-year-old man suspected of committing crimes in Mbhalati village, outside Malamulele. This incident occurred on Saturday, 12 August.
Two more incidents were reported in the Vhembe area over the past week.
On Friday, 18 August, at approximately 21:00, an angry mob severely beat a 30-year-old man at Tshikhudini outside Thohoyandou, accusing him of a series of crimes in the village. The man, identified as Londolani Mutharini, was later set on fire and burned beyond recognition, ultimately succumbing to his injuries. Mutharini had been on the village's list of most wanted criminals.
Acting spokesperson for the Vhembe SAPS Sgt Vuledzani Dathi stated that they had opened a murder case. "The police were alerted and, upon arrival at the scene, found a body burned beyond recognition, with burnt objects nearby. The suspects responsible for the death have not been identified. Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased was involved in criminal activities around the village, and the police were also searching for him. Police investigations are ongoing," he said.
On Sunday, 20 August, at around 19:00, another mob attack occurred at Hanani village in Tshimbupfe outside Vuwani. Fifty-two-year-old Thivhilaeli Ramathuthu and his accomplice were accused of cable theft and taken from a local tavern to the local grounds and attacked and beaten by residents. The two suspects, severely injured, were later hospitalised and Ramathuthu succumbed to his injuries.
Vhamusanda Vho-Vusulusani Watson Maraganezha of Tshikhudini said the reason behind these violent actions was the frustration of communities. "Residents are fed up with crime. They report suspects, but nothing is done about it. This makes them question whether there is any law enforcement left, and the answer is no. We are not surprised when this happens," he said.
The chairperson of the Tshimbupfe Traditional Council, Mr Samson Netshimbupfe, echoed Maraganezha's sentiments. "Crime is at an all-time high. We have had numerous cases of cable theft and cattle theft here. This affects us all, and we are not surprised that people are angry and resort to such extremes. Where are the police to stop all this crime here?" he said.
Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba stated that they had opened a case of murder as well as a case of attempted murder. Investigations are ongoing.
Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects involved should contact Detective Sergeant Agnes Meregi on 082 755 6895. Alternatively, call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or report it via the MysapsApp.