Mob turns on suspected teen robber outside Louis Trichardt

LIMPOPO – A young man who reportedly attempted to rob a Somali businessman in Madombidzha on October 5 met a gruesome fate at the hands of an angry mob who attacked him with an array of weapons.

The victim has been identified as Lavhelesani Sidogi (18) from Tshikhwani.

An anonymous source told CV that three young men attempted to rob the shop owner, producing a toy gun. The shop owner, not cooperating with their request, confronted them and, while two of the boys ran off, he managed to get a hold of the third.

The community rushed to the man’s aid during the incident at around 16:30 and assaulted the boy, leaving him next to the roadside and keeping emergency services personnel from offering medical care.

“It was good that he was beaten to death. Criminals think they can do as they wish in the community. We are tired of crime, and the rule of law is taking us nowhere. Beating or killing them will send a strong message to everyone in this community that they should think twice,” the source remarked.

Rosinah Sadiki, the victim’s grandmother, said she was devastated over the incident. “We have tried to find out where he had stolen goods and what had happened to the goods he was said to have stolen, but no one is prepared to show us the loot.”

Police spokesperson Lt Col Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the incident and said they have opened a murder case. He sternly warned the community against taking the law into their own hands. “Mob justice is a crime on its own. We urge communities to hand criminals over to the police, who can ensure they are arrested and prosecuted.”

The police appeal to anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with their investigations. Contact the Tshilwavhusiku SAPS or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.

Following Sidogi’s death, social media platforms were abuzz with comments, with many condemning mob justice practices.

He was buried at Tshikhwani on Saturday.