A fatal stabbing and a vehicle set alight followed a fight at a Lethabong tavern in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Lethabong police have registered a case of murder and a case of malicious damage to property. The incident occurred at approximately 03:25 on Thursday, 01 January 2026.
According to police, a dispute ignited inside the tavern when some patrons began setting off fireworks, leading to a confrontation with others who objected. A physical fight ensued, during which a 38-year-old man was stabbed with a sharp object and died at the scene.
Following the stabbing, a group accompanying the deceased allegedly pursued the suspect, who fled on foot. The group then located a vehicle they believed belonged to the suspect, parked nearby, and set it on fire.
The suspect later arrived at a police station to seek assistance. Upon his arrival, he was identified as the murder suspect, arrested, and detained.
Police investigations are ongoing.
