Missing Limpopo farmer, 62-year-old David Netshilaphala has been found dead, according to the police.
Narrating the circumstances, provincial police spokesperson in Limpopo, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng said days before Netshilaphala went missing, his livestock had vanished.
“On February 27, 2025, in the afternoon, the 62-year-old farmer went to his kraal at Xikundu village to check on his cattle. On his arrival, he found that three of his cattle were missing,” said Thakeng.
“After two days of the incident, 62-year-old David Netshilaphala was reported missing at Saselamani SAPS. Members of the community gathered and started to burn houses of suspects alleged to be responsible for the missing person.”
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Six houses were torched during the riots. In the aftermath, one community member was arrested and charged with arson.
“The search continued until March 10 2025, when farmers provided information to the investigation team about the possible suspects. The information was operationalised to Shimausa village and Tiyani Magoro village in Hlanganani policing area under Mopani District where two suspects aged between 21 and 31 were linked, and arrested for murder,” said Thakeng.
The arrested suspects led police to a crime scene, where they had allegedly dumped the body believed to be that of the missing farmer, Netshilaphala.
Relatives positively identified the body, confirming it was the missing farmer.
Police said the arrested suspects face charges including murder and stock theft before the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court.
“Anyone with information that can assist in apprehending the remaining suspect should contact detective investigating officer, Captain Tshilande Nkangweleni on 082 414 2989, Crime Stop number 08600 10111 or alternatively use the My SAPS App,” said Thakeng.
Meanwhile, provincial police commissioner in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has warned communities against mob justice.
“Residents once more are discouraged not to take law into their own hands. Swift reaction by SAPS members is applauded, which led to the arrest of suspects of murder and stock theft,” she said.
Last week, reported that police in Limpopo have “strongly” condemned the brutal attack of three alleged business robbers by an angry mob of community members at Ga-Selepe in Mecklenburg policing area. One of the attacked suspects lost his life in an inferno.
