LIMPOPO – The family of a 27-year-old man shot dead by police in Gogobela on November 10 is demanding answers.

Vhembe police spokesperson, WO Vuledzani Dathi confirmed that intensive investigations have been launched following the incident involving Awelani Munyanganyi.

Police were tracing suspects linked to a house robbery in the village when they located Munyanganyi.

According to the report, the suspect confronted officers with a knife. A warning shot was fired, but when he apparently continued advancing, police fired again.

Emergency medical services transported him to a local hospital, where he was declared dead.

Munyanganyi was wanted in connection with house robbery, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, business burglary, intimidation, malicious damage to property, and attempted robbery with a weapon.

Authorities reported that on November 9, an unknown man entered a home through the roof and stole a cellphone valued at close to R12 000.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been notified, and the investigation continues.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Masindi Mugwedi described Munyanganyi as a “decent and respectful young man”, and called for justice.

“We want to know why he was killed and who is responsible. The police are meant to protect us, not take lives,” he said.