Police in Lethabong near Rustenburg in the North West have opened two cases, murder and malicious damage to property, following a tavern altercation that left one man dead in the early hours of New Year’s Day.

The Witness reports that the incident occurred at about 03:25 yesterday.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, patrons were inside a tavern when several people allegedly began igniting fireworks indoors. Those opposed to the behaviour confronted them, sparking a fight that started inside the tavern and spilled outside.

During the altercation, a 38-year-old man was stabbed with a sharp object and died at the scene.

During the commotion, a 38-year-old victim was stabbed with a sharp object and died instantly.

“Thereafter, a group that was with the deceased allegedly attacked the suspect, who managed to flee the scene on foot. The group then identified the suspect’s vehicle that was parked nearby, and set it alight.”

The group later identified a vehicle believed to belong to the suspect, which was parked nearby, and set it alight.

Tselanyane says the suspect reportedly went to a police station after learning his vehicle had been burnt and was scared to the tavern.

Upon being identified as a murder suspect, the 45-year-old man was arrested and detained.

“He is expected to appear in the Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court in Tlhabane on Monday, on a charge of murder.”

Police said further arrests could be made.

Acting North West provincial commissioner Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo condemned the incident.

“It is disappointing that despite numerous warnings regarding the careful use of fireworks, some members of the community continue to act recklessly, to the extent of discharging fireworks inside a tavern, resulting in a loss of life,” says Naidoo.

“We convey our condolences to the bereaved family and assure the public that no stone will be left unturned in ensuring justice is served.”

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.