TZANEEN – Police have launched a manhunt for two armed suspects believed to be responsible for a string of violent crimes in Hoveni village, just outside Tzaneen.

The incidents occurred between the night of Friday (May 9) and the early hours of Saturday.

Police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, says the suspects targeted seven households between 23:30 and 02:00, in what appears to have been a coordinated series of house robberies and assaults.

The suspects, reportedly armed with firearms, forcibly entered homes, demanding cash and valuables. Several serious offences were committed during the spree, including multiple rapes involving minors, an attempted murder, and cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe expressed outrage and has ordered the immediate mobilisation of all available resources to arrest the suspects.

“What we have witnessed in Hoveni village is an attack not just on individual families, but on the safety and dignity of our entire community,” says Hadebe. “I have directed experienced detectives and specialised units to prioritise the investigation. All available resources will be used to locate and arrest the suspects.”

Ledwaba says that among the crimes reported were three separate incidents of rape, including the sexual assault of girls aged 14 and 15, and an attempted murder in which a male victim was shot multiple times and is currently receiving medical treatment. In addition to physical violence, shots were reportedly fired during several of the break-ins.

Forensic teams have collected evidence from the scenes, including spent cartridges. A task team has been established comprising members from the Provincial Serious and Violent Crime Unit, Crime Intelligence, and the Tactical Response Team.

Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist in identifying or locating the suspects to come forward. Community members can contact Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola on 082 749 2233, Colonel Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501, Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or use the MySAPSApp to submit anonymous tips.

Investigations are ongoing.