Limpopo couple murdered: Community take law into their own hands
A group of residents took the law into their own hands, when they torched property belonging to a businessman, after they reportedly accused him of murdering the young couple.
LIMPOPO – A group of residents from Ga-Rapitsi village, took the law into their own hands on Thursday morning and torched properties which belonged to a local businessman, in an apparent mob justice attack.
According to police reports, the group had reportedly accused the 47-year-old man of the murder of Nius Malatjie (21) and his 18-year-old girlfriend, Lucia Malapane, whose bodies were found in their house on Tuesday, 6 October. Both had sustained multiple stab wounds. Their 12-month-old baby girl was found next to them, unhurt.
Read more: Murdered couple found on their bed: Limpopo police offer R200 000 reward for information
“It is alleged that during the mob incident the group torched the man’s business premises just outside Modjadjiskloof as well as a motor vehicle. They then proceeded to his house, where they set alight and in the process, killed livestock, including chickens, goats and pigs,” said Police Spokesperson, Brig Motlafela Mojapelo.
Property damage is estimated to the value of more than R1 million and cases of arson and malicious damage to property are being investigated by the police.
Transport and Community Safety MEC, Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya has called for calm following the incident and urged the police to ‘act swiftly’ to make sure that the perpetrator(s) are apprehended and brought to book.
Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt Genl Nneke Ledwaba has condemned the acts of vigilantism and mob justice and warned residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. “We appeal to those who might have information that can assist the police in their investigations, to approach them instead of resorting to violence.” He concluded that harsh steps will be taken against any transgressors.
Police investigations in both incidents are ongoing.
Police have since offered a monetary reward of up to R200 000Â to anyone who can provide information which may lead to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s) involved in a double murder. Those with information about either incident, can contact Brig Willy Mashava at 082 451 7188, the 24-hour Crime stop number at 0860010111 or their nearest police station.
