-Edited- A 31 year-old man was severely slashed and murdered by three panga-wielding guys while walking home after purchasing drugs last month.
SAPS Colonel, Priscilla Naidu says the deceased, Thembinkosi Mkele, was chased by the trio and managed to run home. However, he was dragged out of his house, severely beaten and slashed with pangas. He succumbed to in injuries and the suspects ran away.
SAPS Humansdorp detectives and the Anti-Gang Unit in Gqeberha arrested three murder suspects today for the alleged murder of Mkele in Donkerhoek on 26 August. The arrest occurred early this morning.
Just before 5 am the detectives received information of the suspects and around 9 am, with the assistance of the Anti-Gang Unit, two suspects aged 18 and 19 years old were arrested at a house in Donkerhoek. The third suspect aged 22 years old was arrested at another Donkerhoek house..
A pellet gun and a gas pistol were also confiscated.
The two teenagers are also linked to two armed robberies committed earlier in the week in Donkerhoek. They are charged with murder and armed robberies. The third suspect was charged with murder.
The trio will appear in the Humansdorp magistrate court tomorrow, 8 September, on their respective charges.
Sarah Baartman District Commissioner, Maj Gen Zolani Xawuka, commended the investigating team for their exemplary efforts and emphasised :”These arrests are not just about solving individual cases but also about sending a strong message to potential criminals that police are vigilant and determined to bring those responsible for criminality in areas, such as Donkerhoek, to justice. We encourage the communities to continue their support in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all.”
