Suspects charged with arson after torching shops
“In addition to the taverns and the warehouse, a truck was also torched. The suspects had reportedly accused the owner of the taverns of murdering a young woman about two weeks ago.
MOOIHOEK – Mecklenburg police arrested 47 suspects on charges of public violence and arson after shops belonging to Mr Aaron Makgolane were torched and looted last Thursday.
According to Limpopo police spokesman, Col Ronel Otto, the individuals were arrested for the looting and torching of two taverns and a liquor warehouse.
“In addition to the taverns and the warehouse, a truck was also torched. The suspects had reportedly accused the owner of the taverns of murdering a young woman about two weeks ago.
“Initially her ex-boyfriend was arrested but could not be connected to murder due to lack of evidence. The community is now suspecting the businessman,” said Otto.
Otto added that four other people were also arrested after they had been found in possession of stolen goods.
“Liquor, cigarettes, groceries, TVs, refrigerators and stoves were recovered,” she said.
Spokesman for the Mecklenburg SAPS, Const Kgalake Mampuru said that after the community members damaged Makgolane’s shops they preceded to another businesswoman, Ms Ester Maphanga’s liquor warehouse on Friday July 10 were they stole alcohol, cigarettes, and groceries.
Mampuru said the police managed to stop the unruly acts in time. “We arrived at Maphanga’s shop before they had finished the looting, and could rescue some of her items,” Mampuru revealed.
The Mecklenburg SAPS warned residents not to take the law into their own hands. “ If they suspect that there is any wrongdoing against any individual, they have to report the matter to the police. No one will be allowed to vandalise without facing the consequences.”
The 47 suspects will appear in the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court on July 20.
