The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned an incident in which the community of Mudimeli Village at Mphephu Policing area in Vhembe District, allegedly went on a rampage and torched two houses that belonged to a 45-year-old woman and his son after they accused the woman of witchcraft. The incident took place on Saturday 22 July 2023 at about 10h00.
According to the reports, police were alerted by the local chief about community members who had gathered at his place and complaining about a certain family that is accused of practicing witchcraft and that he was not taking steps against them.
The raging mob then proceeded to the woman’s home and allegedly demanded to search the house for the muthi. The group then set the house alight and thereafter went to the woman’s son in the same neighbourhood and torched his house as well.
When Police arrived at the scene, the suspects had already fled the scene. Both houses were completely burned with all the properties inside. The total estimated damage is at R200 000-00. There were no injuries sustained during the incident.
Police have opened two counts of arson and the victims and their families have been accommodated at the local Police Station Victim Empowerment Service where they are receiving the necessary assistance including counselling.
“We will never allow this unruly behaviour by people who make baseless accusations and take the law into their own hands. The team assigned to track down the suspects responsible, must work around the clock to ensure their immediate arrest so that they face the consequences of their actions.
Community members must come forward with information to assist Police in their investigation,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
Police are expected to make a breakthrough soon in terms of apprehending the suspects.
Anyone with information that can lead to the apprehension of the suspects should urgently contact Lieutenant Colonel Dzagana on 0825657729 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or the nearest police station or use MySAPSApp.