By Kopano Dibakwane
A police investigation is underway in relation to the disappearance of two men who were reportedly abducted and assaulted after they were accused of stealing livestock on Friday 23 August.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the incident occured at a certain farm in Somaphepha, near Laersdrift, outside Middleburg.
He said that there’s a high possibility that the two victims, whose names are known to the police, might have been killed. As a result, two suspects were reportedly arrested in connection with the incident and they subsequently appeared at the Middleburg on Thursday 29 August.
“ At this moment, the whereabouts or possible remains of the two victims is subject of police investigation. The South African Police Service(SAPS) is committed to a thorough probe of this case and a dedicated team is working diligently to uncover all facts surrounding this tragic Incident,” said Mdhluli
He added that the two suspect were remanded in police custody and will make their second court appearance on 5 September.
“ The community’s cooperation is paramount as police strive to bring justice to those affected by this incident. The SAPS will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available,” he said.
Mpumalanga Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has condemned the incident and emphasised that acts of vigilantism as well as violence have no place in society as they undermine the rule of law.
