Picture: One of the torched vehicles belonging to a sangoma/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
More than 30 people have been arrested for public violence during a protest in Mmatshepe village, near Mahikeng. This comes after the assassination of the local chief, Kgosi Gopane Phillip Motuba.
North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said Motuba was allegedly robbed and killed by two unknown men, who buttonholed him at his house. Mokgwabone further said, the men allegedly entered Motuba’s house through an unlocked front door at around 4:30am.
“A case of robbery and murder is under investigation. Subsequent to the incident, houses belonging to a villager suspected to be responsible for Motuba’s death were set alight on Monday. The houses include those used for training and consultation by traditional healers (sangoma).
“In addition, two vehicles were torched while the third one was damaged. Furthermore, a local road between Mahikeng and Itsoseng was barricaded. Upon intervening, and as part of maintaining public order, Mahikeng Public Order Police (POP) arrested 39 individuals for public violence,” he added.
Mokgwabone said the arrests led to the convergence of Matshepe community members into Lomanyaneng Police Station to demand the release of the suspects. He said, however, they later dispersed and the suspects aged between 22 and 55 are expected to appear before the Molopo Magistrate’s Court soon.
“The police would like to request anyone who may have information that can assist in the investigations to contact the Investigating Officer, Detective Warrant Officer Samuel Matiti on 082 374 0498 or call the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
“Anonymous tip-offs can also be communicated via MySAPS App. The police in the Ngaka Molema District are on high alert,” said Mokgwabone.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, condemned the incidents, which he said are a clear sign of disrespect for the rule of law and cannot be tolerated. Kwena urged the community to work together with the police to ensure justice rather than taking the law into their own hands, which is unlawful and unacceptable.
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