Makhado Detectives in Vhembe District have launched a manhunt for suspects who allegedly doused a ten-roomed house with a highly flammable substance believed to be petrol and set it alight, resulting in about 2,5 millions of rands in damages. The incident occurred on Thursday, 08 February 2024, in Maelula Village at around midnight.
Preliminary reports indicate that a 70-year-old man was awakened by his wife after hearing a strange sound outside. The elderly couple were then alerted by their son to evacuate the house as it was on fire.
Police and emergency rescue services were summoned. Sadly, the ten-roomed house was already engulfed in flames and was totally burned with all the properties inside.
A bottle containing what seemed to be a mixture of flammable substance and sand , another bottle containing what is believed to be petrol and a bag were recovered at the scene. It was further established that the suspects cut the fence to gain entry to the premises.
Police have opened a case of arson, and the motive behind the incident is still subject to police investigation.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of police Major General Jan Scheepers has ordered that the suspects responsible for this heinous act be hunted down and brought to book.
“We appeal to the community members with information that can lead to the apprehension of the suspects to come forward,” concluded Major General Scheepers.
Anyone with information should urgently contact the police on toll-free number 08600 10111 or visit the nearest police station or use MySAPS App.
Police investigations are still ongoing.