Tired of rampant crime in their community, angry residents at Muledane, outside Thohoyandou, took the law into their own hands by beating two alleged thieves severely.
One suspect was declared dead at the scene, while the alleged accomplice was rushed to hospital in a serious condition.
The incident, one of the most intense cases of mob justice in the area, occurred at Muledane Block J on Saturday, 11 October, around 07:30. According to what could be established, the pair had entered a house, prompting the owner to call for help. Neighbours rushed to the scene and caught up with the suspects, who were then meted out instant justice. Both were found naked and sprawled on the nearby road.
Residents, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they were frustrated by the crime wave in the area, which included break-ins, cable thefts, robberies, shootings, and muggings. "We no longer feel safe. It is no longer safe to walk at night, and even our homes are no longer secure," one resident said. She added that the community's anger was understandable. "This is the only language criminals understand," she said.
A source indicated that, a month ago, the community had dealt similarly with two other notorious robbers near Mvudi Bridge, with one reportedly dying from the injuries sustained.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed that the police had received an alert about the beating. "On arrival, officers found two men lying naked in a pool of blood. One was dead, the other seriously injured. Both were identified as Zimbabwean citizens. Murder and attempted murder cases have been opened. No arrests have been made so far, and a manhunt is underway. Anyone with relevant information should contact Const Rendani Peter Tshavhungwe on 072-1892544," he said.