A 17-year-old teenager is behind bars for his alleged involvement in a murder case that occurred at a tavern in Tukakgomo, in the Sekhukhune District Municipality of Limpopo.

The incident occurred at about 18:30 on Sunday, and according to Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the suspect and the victim were involved in a heated argument.

“It is alleged that the victim in this matter stabbed the suspect with a knife on the hand. He then went home and reported the incident to his father and uncle. They grouped themselves and searched for the victim. Upon finding him, they assaulted him with various objects, including stones, and killed him,” says Ledwaba.

He adds the police and Emergency Medical Services personnel were summoned to the scene. “The victim was certified dead at the scene, and his identity is currently withheld for investigation purposes,” says Ledwaba.

He confirms the SAPS registered a case of murder.

“One suspect, aged 17, was arrested, and social workers were engaged as the suspect is still a minor. [A] manhunt for the two remaining suspects was activated.”

Limpopo SAPS commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemns the lawlessness by community members and calls upon the police to track and trace the suspects so that they face the full might of law.

“No one is allowed to act in an unlawful manner even with the slightest provocation.The members of the public are urged to report any act of crime to law enforcement authorities.”

Anyone with information regarding the suspects, should contact the Burgersfort SAPS investigating officers on 076 429 8388, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or send information via the MySAPS spp.

Police investigations are ongoing.