A SUSPECT LINKED TO ELECTRIC CABLE THEFT WAS KILLED INSIDE A YARD AT MATIPANE VILLAGE

GA-MATIPANE– A community vigilante turned violent as the suspect who is also a local dhamara artist was killed during mob attack at Matipane village on Tuesday, 24 March 2026, at approximately 00:35.

The police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says Mokwakwaila police are investigating this disturbing murder case.

Colonel Ledwaba says the police received a complaint about a murder incident at the village and rushed to the vicinity. Upon arrival, they found the male suspect lying on the ground inside a yard.

The members of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were summoned, and he was certified dead on their arrival.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased was part of a group suspected of stealing electric cables in the area. When confronted by the members of the community, he took them to a certain house in the area and pointed out two suspects who managed to flee.

The community members allegedly assaulted the victim to death using bricks and fled the scene afterward.

“The incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of taking the law into one’s own hands and the devastating consequences that can result. We will not tolerate any form of vigilantism or violence in our communities, and the perpetrators will be hunted down to face the full might of the law” said Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.

The police are appealing to anyone with information that can assist with investigations is urged to contact the Investigating Officer Sergeant Lawrance Maluleke on 074 859 8356 or crime stop number 08600 10111 or their nearest police station or MySAPS App.

Police investigations are continuing.