Mob justice in Limpopo: Man beaten to death by community after he allegedly killed girlfriend
Police are investigating two murder cases and an attempted murder following a violent domestic incident that escalated into mob justice at Tjibeng Village in Limpopo.
Image: File/ Brenton Geach
Two people were killed and another seriously injured during a violent domestic-related incident that escalated into mob justice at Tjibeng Village in Limpopo.
According to the South African Police Service, Mecklenburg police are investigating two cases of murder and one of attempted murder following the incident, which occurred at about 4.30 pm on Friday.
Police said they were alerted to reports that a man had allegedly killed his girlfriend. On arrival at the scene, officers found the body of a 38-year-old woman lying in a pool of blood with a deep cut to her throat.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the woman was allegedly attacked by her 40-year-old boyfriend. Police said the victim had earlier locked herself inside the house, fearing for her life, but the suspect later gained access after convincing a family member that he wanted to speak to her.
Moments later, family members heard screams coming from inside the house. When they attempted to intervene, they found the suspect armed with a blood-stained knife. He then fled through a rear window.
During a chase, the victim’s 41-year-old younger brother managed to catch the suspect but was stabbed several times in the back. He collapsed and was rushed to hospital, where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
Community members later joined the chase and apprehended the suspect, who was allegedly assaulted with various objects, including stones.
Police were subsequently called to a scene near a tavern, where the suspect was found with serious injuries. Emergency Medical Services declared him dead at the scene.
The identities of the deceased and the injured have not been released.
Limpopo provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the violent attack and acts of mob justice, urging communities to allow law enforcement to deal with criminal matters through lawful processes.
The incident occurred in Tjibeng Village in the Sekhukhune District. Investigations are continuing.
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