A 32-year-old man has been arrested by police in Lebowakgomo, Limpopo, following the fatal stabbing of a young man after an alleged tavern fight.
The suspect was tracked down and arrested on Monday, February 2, after intensive investigations by detectives and the local task team.
He is accused of killing 25-year-old Mpho Jan Maenetja during a violent altercation in Makaung, Seleteng, Ga-Mphahlele.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said police first became aware of the incident when the victim was rushed to hospital in the early hours of Sunday morning.
“Police received a complaint of murder at the hospital,” Ledwaba said. “Upon arrival at the hospital, members discovered a male victim who had sustained multiple stab wounds.”
It is alleged that Maenetja became involved in a fight with a friend of the suspect at a local tavern. Police said the situation escalated when the suspect intervened.
“The suspect got angry and grabbed a beer bottle from the floor and stabbed the victim with it,” Ledwaba said.
The tavern owner reportedly rushed the injured man to the nearest medical facility, but he was later declared dead by medical personnel.
The suspect appeared before the Lebowakgomo Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, on a charge of murder.
The matter was postponed to February 10 for a formal bail application.
Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has condemned violent behaviour, warning that those responsible for crimes will be held accountable.
Police investigations remain ongoing.
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Xolile Mtembu
iol.co.za
