The South African Police Service in Thohoyandou under Vhembe District are investigating a cases of murder and attempted murder that took place at a local car wash in Sibasa location on Tuesday, 20 February 2024 at about 13:00.
Police received a complaint about a shooting incident at Badugela Car Wash and rushed to the scene. Upon their arrival they found a lifeless body of a male lying on the ground with gunshot wounds.
The members of the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were summoned to the scene for medical assistance but he was declared dead on their arrival at the scene.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased was fatally shot by four male suspects who were driving a white Toyota Etios motor vehicle. It is further reported that the deceased arrived with his 48-year-old male friend and was shot while vacating the friend’s motor vehicle.
The friend’s motor vehicle was also shot at when he tried to drive off for his safety. The deceased’s friend did not sustain any injuries during the incident.
The deceased was positively identified as Mpho Thabela aged 47 who reside at Gondeni, La-Mabilu village.
The motive of the incident is currently unknown at this stage but police investigations are ongoing. A massive manhunt of the unknown male suspects is underway.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the incident and called upon community to assist the Police by providing information that can help in apprehending suspects.
Anyone with information that can assist with their apprehension should urgently contact the Investigating Officer Captain Rasilingwane Mawela on 082 414 7763 or crime stop number 08600 10111 or nearest police station or MySAPSApp.
Police investigations are continuing.