SEBOKENG.- The Sebokeng police are investigating a case of kidnapping and murder after a man (38) was forcefully taken to an unknown location and murdered on March 8.

According to Sebokeng police spokesperson, Nthabiseng Mokhachane, two unknown men arrived at the victim’s home, claiming they were there to collect unspecified belongings. They left, but shortly after, the victim returned with a group of unidentified individuals. His hands were tied behind his back, his clothes were soaked, and he appeared to have been assaulted.

Eyewitnesses state that bystanders pleaded for the assault to stop and noted that the matter had previously been addressed by police. However, one of the suspects allegedly demanded cash or the return of certain items.

“The victim was further assaulted at his residence before being loaded onto the back of a light delivery vehicle (bakkie) and taken to an unknown location. Later that day, police were called to Fochville Road in the Rietspruit area of Sebokeng following reports of a group assaulting someone in the back of a bakkie,” said Mokhachane.

Upon arrival, officers arrested eight suspects who were still at the scene. The victim, who had suffered severe injuries to his face and upper body, was declared dead by Emergency Medical Services. Mokhachane condemned the incident, urging the community to refrain from acts of mob justice.

“Vigilantism is a crime, and taking the law into your own hands will not be tolerated,” she said.

Meanwhile, police thanked community members for their vigilance and urged anyone with information regarding the case to contact the Sebokeng SAPS Station Commander on 071 675 7218.