By Staff Reporter
PETANENGE VILLAGE-Police rescued a 32-year-old suspect from the wrath of an angry mob on Sunday, April 24 after he allegedly murdered his ex-girlfriend in Petanenge.
According Limpopo Police Spokesperson Lt Col Malesela Ledwaba angry community members were apparently seeking vengeance on the suspect who allegedly murdered his ex-girlfriend, Tebogo Malatji (32).
During the rescue the Police were attached by the community members who started attacking the police officers and pelted their vehicles with stones.
One member was seriously injured as a result and two police vehicles were damaged, said the police.
The suspect was eventually rescued and taken to hospital and will appear before the Ritavi Magistrate’s Court as soon as he recovers
He was reportedly found lying unconscious on the nearby mountains after he allegedly consumed a poisonous substance in an attempt to commit suicide.
Lieutenant colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that they have opened a case of malicious damage to property and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm against Petanenge community members.
“The tendency of some community members who take the law into their own hands is viewed in a very serious light and all the suspects that are linked to the attack on our members and damaging the state resources during the vigilante incident will be hunted down and brought to book” Lt Col Ledwaba said
Meanwhile Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the behaviour of the community.
“Community members must desist from taking the law into their own hands, instead they should work with the police to fight crime,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
“Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects responsible for the attack on police should contact Detective Warrant Officer Ronny Baloyi on 083 330 4133 or the crime stop number 0860010111 or the nearest police station.
