Seven Arrested After Violent Initiation Feud in Sekgosese
Limpopo police have arrested seven suspects aged between 35 and 45 for cases of assault ŵith intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH) and murder following a violent feud between initiation educators and community members on 22 June 2024 at Itieleng village in Sekgosese under Mopani District.
It is alleged that on Saturday at about 20h00, a group of community members organized an event where they played loud music.
The initiation educators reportedly arrived at the event and switched off the music. This resulted in a conflict that escalated tensions.
The two groups attacked each other with stones where several people sustained injuries, and a 35-year-old man lost his life.
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Subsequent to the violence, a team of investigators was assigned to hunt down the suspects and made a breakthrough yesterday( Sunday), when they arrested three suspects aged between 34 and 42 for cases of assault GBH.
The other four suspects aged between 35 and 45 were charged with murder.
The three suspects arrested for assault GBH will appear before the Senwamokgope Periodical Court.
The four suspects charged with murder will appear before Giyani Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
The Provincial Commissioner of police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the arrest and urged the police to track down the remaining suspects to face the full might of the law.
Meanwhile, the Department of Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements, and Traditional Affairs (COGHSTA) issued a statement on Monday condemning the incident and offering condolences.
“We are saddened by the death of a 35-year-old man who passed away following an assault during a clash between a group of initiation school supervisors and community members in Itereleng village, Sekgosese. We extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased.”
“We urge all stakeholders to work together peacefully and respectfully to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants in initiation activities.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by these tragic incidents. The Department remains committed to supporting the affected communities and ensuring that all initiation practices are conducted safely and respectfully.” the statement said
Seven Arrested After Violent Initiation Feud in Sekgosese