A grandmother and her two grandchildren were burnt to death inside a house in Islington outside Thulamahashe, while another sustained serious injuries.

The tragedy occurred on Sunday, August 20. According to a provincial police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the SAPS received a complaint about a house on fire in the area, only to find three people already burnt beyond recognition.

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“According to information, the neighbours saw the house on fire and tried to save those inside, but was too late. The grandmother and her two grandchildren died in the blaze. The fourth person, also a grandchild, was admitted to hospital. The community suspected the uncle and searched for him. After finding him in the bushes not far from the scene, they allegedly started assaulting him before he was rescued by the police and taken for questioning. He was later released as he could not be linked to the fire,” he said.

Mohlala said the investigation continues and also condemned the community members for taking the law into their own hands.