Stock thief beaten to death by community

South African Police Service

Stock thief beaten to death by community
Stock thief beaten to death by community

The Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the brutal killing of a 53-year-old man during mob justice attack that took place on Sunday 16 April 2023, at Humulani Village in Lulekani policing precinct outside Phalaborwa.

Police at about 12:00 responded to a complaint of assault at the Maphuthuma hospital in Namakgale policing area. Upon arrival, they found the victim with severe injuries throughout his body.

Unfortunately, the victim later succumbed to the injuries. He was identified as Mozambican national Andries Zitha aged 53.

A case of murder was then opened and police commenced with investigation.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was brought to the hospital by a group of livestock owners who allegedly assaulted him after they accused him of stealing and killing their livestock.

Police conducted further investigation and cow meat believed to be from the stolen livestock was recovered at the deceased’s homestead and in the bushes.

A case of stock theft was consequently opened against the deceased.

The Provincial Commissioner, has ordered the District Commissioner of Mopàni Major General Willy Mashavha to establish a task team to hunt down all those responsible and bring them to book.

“Police will be merciless in dealing with any person who takes the law into their own hands by attacking people they suspect of being criminals. Community members are urged to desist from these attacks and should instead call the police to effect arrests.” said Lieutenant General Hadebe

Police appeal to anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact the Branch Commander Captain Shadrack Dlamini on 082 468 8639 or call the crime stop number 0860010111.

SAPS Newsroom

SOURCESouth African Police Service