Police warn Limpopo residents after mob killing of Zimbabwean man accused of cable theft
Police in Limpopo have launched a murder investigation following the alleged mob assault of a Zimbabwean national accused of stealing electric cables at Lefara Village in the Maake policing area.
According to the South African Police Service, the incident occurred on Tuesday, 20 January 2026.
Police said officers were called to the village after reports of a mob attack and found community members gathered around an unknown man lying on the ground with serious injuries. An ambulance was summoned, and the injured man was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment.
Before being transported, police were able to speak to the victim, who was later identified as a Zimbabwean national residing at Bridgeway Village. Preliminary information suggests he was assaulted by community members who accused him of stealing electric cables.
Later that evening, the man succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Emergency Medical Services personnel certified him dead.
Meanwhile, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, condemned acts of mob justice, warning that taking the law into one’s own hands constitutes a serious criminal offence and undermines the rule of law.
She urged community members to report suspected criminal activities to the police, allowing law enforcement to handle such matters through lawful processes.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is urged to contact the investigating officer, Constable Madibeng Mahlo, on 082 319 9742, their nearest police station, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be shared via the MySAPS App.
Police investigations are continuing.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News