POLOKWANE – The police in Motetema are investigating an incident in which two male suspects, allegedly attempting to commit a house robbery, were assaulted by community members, resulting in one suspect succumbing to injuries while the other remains in hospital under police guard.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 04 January 2026, at approximately 21h30, at rental rooms in Manapyane village
It is alleged that three victims, two females and one male, were accosted inside a room by an African male suspect wearing a balaclava and allegedly armed with a firearm, who demanded money and cellphones. One of the victims managed to escape and alerted community members, who responded and apprehended two suspects. The suspects were allegedly assaulted and sustained serious injuries. They were transported to a local hospital for medical attention, where one later succumbed to the injuries.
Police have opened cases of attempted house robbery and murder.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers has condemned acts of mob justice and urges communities to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, but instead allow police to deal with criminal activities within the confines of the law.
Anyone with information that may assist with investigations is urged to contact investigating officer Constable Malesela Galane on 082 573 3978 or contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPSApp.
Police investigations continue.
