Seshego murder sparks fears of gang violence resurgence among youth
A fatal stabbing in Seshego has raised concerns that youth gang culture, once buried, is making a comeback in the township.
POLOKWANE – The murder of a popular local grill outlet worker in Seshego has reignited fears that the long-buried culture of gang violence in the township is resurfacing among its youth.
Nineteen-year-old George Machaba appeared in the Seshego Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where his bail application was denied.
The case was postponed to Monday.
Machaba stands accused of stabbing Lebogang Maruma (22) in the chest while Maruma was working as a bouncer during the Polokwane Social Derby celebration near Seshego Stadium in Zone 1 in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Read more: Police nab teen after fatal stabbing at Seshego Social Derby
Maruma, known in the community for his braai skills at a local grill outlet, was declared dead upon arrival at Seshego Hospital.
His suspected murderer is said to be part of a growing number of territorial gangs of high school learners.
Community activist Oageng Makhura, who helped with the suspect’s apprehension, revealed that about 46 boys linked to several gangs have already been identified.
“So far, 12 have been brought in for questioning, leading to Machaba’s arrest. More arrests are imminent,” he told Polokwane Observer.
The gangs are believed to operate from Zone 5, Zone 8 and Luthuli Park, recruiting schoolboys who often join either out of peer pressure or fear of being victimised.
Turf wars reportedly break out after school hours, with violent incidents spilling into community spaces and events.
Seshego has a troubled history with gang violence, most notably around 2011, when such groups fuelled crime, drug abuse and fear until interventions by community safety forums, led by the late Vincent Kunutu and allies like Makhura and Philly Moloto, helped restore calm.
But recent incidents, including reports of intimidation, kidnappings and armed confrontations have raised concern that the problem is returning.
Criminologist Prof Kwena Rakubu warned that many of the young offenders come from single-parent or guardian-led homes struggling to manage aggressive behaviour.
“Community-safety groups must urgently step in to educate, monitor, and hold these young people accountable before the situation escalates further,” Rakubu said.
The police have confirmed investigations are ongoing, with further arrests expected.
