Cape Town – A suspected livestock thief was brutally killed in a mob justice attack at Humulani Village, outside Phalaborwa on Sunday.
Police have identified the deceased man as Mozambican national, Andries Zitha, 53.
It is said that meat believed to be from the stolen livestock was recovered at the deceased’s homestead.
According to police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, at about 12:00 police 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,” Ledwaba said.
He said a case of murder was opened and police commenced with investigations.
ALSO READ | Family demands justice after fruit vendor shot dead in hair salon
“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,” said Ledwaba.
Meanwhile, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the brutal killing of the man accused while the district commissioner of police in Mopani, Major General Willy Mashavha, is set to establish a task team to “hunt down” the perpetrators and bring them to book.
“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 08600 10111,” said Ledwaba.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Pexels
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Olwethu Mpeshe
