SESHEGO – THE death of a woman who was found dead in a burnt shack in the Thakgalane section of Blood River last week is being investigated by the Seshego police.
Seshego police spokesperson, WO Mothemane Malefo, said police officials were called to the area and, on their arrival, the shack was already burning.
After the blaze was extinguished, the badly burnt body of 33-year-old Tabitha Molepe was retrieved. Hours later the police were called back to the scene where Thomas Mashoa (43), the man who was reportedly living with Molepe, was found dead hanging from the rafters.
Malefo said Mashoa was the main suspect in the death of Molepe. Explaining why a case of murder and arson would be pursued against Mashoa, who was dead, Malefo said this was procedural. “Otherwise there won’t be closure in the case.”
The police in the area are also investigating a case of murder after a 33-year-old Somali shop owner was recently found dead with stab wounds all over his body. The man also sustained gunshot wounds, and three spent cartridges were found on the scene, Malefo confirmed.
Malefo said the suspects had gained entry into the deceased’s house through the roof. No arrests had been made and the police were still investigating the matter, he said.
The police and other stakeholders will conduct door-to-door campaigns in the area to raise awareness on crime. These campaigns were a prelude to the annual 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children.
“These campaigns are aimed at raising awareness during the 16 days campaign. On Thursday November 27 we will host campaigns at Ga-Chokoe village starting at 09:00. We will also have other campaigns on December 4 and December 10, Mabokelele and Blood River respectively.
“We will be partnering with the departments of home affairs, health and social development, the South African Social Security Agency, Polokwane Municipality, Capricorn District Municipality and Thuthuzela Care Centre,” he concluded.
