Limpopo police are in a race against time to apprehend two suspects involved in a horrific home invasion that resulted in rape and the murder of a young man, raising alarms over community safety.
Image: SAPS
The Limpopo province is grappling with a horrific crime that has left the community of Malamulele reeling in shock and fear.
An urgent manhunt has been initiated by the local police for two unknown suspects involved in a brutal house robbery that culminated in rape and murder.
This heinous incident took place in the early hours of May 6, when a 43-year-old father of two was violently awakened from his sleep by intruders who stormed into his home.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the nightmare unfolded shortly after the family had settled down for the night. As the father became acutely aware of the intruders in his home, a horrifying sequence of violence ensued
"It is alleged that on Tuesday, May 6, at about 02:30, a 43-year-old father of two victims was asleep inside his bedroom when he heard the door open forcefully and unexpectedly saw two unknown males covering their faces with balaclavas."
Mashaba explained that the ordeal began when the father of two was confronted by the intruders, who demanded money and cellphones. After giving them a phone and explaining he had no cash, they tied him up with a rope and then moved to the other rooms where his children were sleeping.
He added that after freeing himself, the victim found his son bleeding on the floor and his daughter was raped.
"The victim found a 20-year-old son lying on the floor, bleeding heavily with a gunshot wound to the forehead. He rushed to the other room and discovered that his 17-year-old daughter was raped by one of the suspects," Mashaba added.
The suspects fled the scene with stolen property, including a cellphone, laptop, chainsaw, TV set, bicycle, and grinder, altogether valued at approximately R36 300.
Both victims were rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care, but tragically, the 20-year-old male succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Police have officially opened cases of house robbery, murder, and rape following the brutal attack in Malamulele. Mashaba has called on the public to assist in locating the two unknown male suspects still at large.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is urged to contact Investigating Officer Sergeant Shadrack Nghezimani Mabunda at 063 447 7375 or 082 319 9724. Alternatively, they can call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp to report any tips.
Police investigations are continuing.
Meanwhile, Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has ordered an intensive manhunt, directing police to deploy all available resources to track down the two unidentified male suspects.
“I have directed the police in Malamulele to use maximum resources to ensure that the suspects involved in this heinous crime are brought to book to face the full might of the law. This case will be monitored very closely,” said Hadebe.
The Star
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