| 38 suspects arrested in the district for serious offences | |
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| Date Published: | |
| 2026/04/15 | |
| Description Details: | |
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Media Statement BETHLEHEM - The Thabo Mofutsanyana District police have arrested 38 suspects over the past week for contact and property-related crimes. Between 6 and 12 April 2026, the district experienced an increase in serious and violent crimes, including murders, attempted murders, and rape cases, particularly in the areas of Maluti-a-Phofung, Phumelela, and Dihlabeng. In several incidents, victims were stabbed or shot during confrontations with suspects, while others sustained injuries and received medical treatment. In Warden, a woman was allegedly murdered and found lying in De Beers Street. The suspect is currently unknown. In Qholaqhwe village in Qwaqwa, a woman who was severely assaulted later succumbed to her injuries in hospital. In Slovo Park near Phuthaditjhaba, a woman was allegedly killed by her husband, who subsequently handed himself over to the police. Other reported incidents include the murder of a 65-year-old foreman on a farm outside Bethlehem, as well as a homeless man who was allegedly shot and killed in the street. In the latter case, a suspect has been arrested and a firearm seized. Police also dealt with several firearm-related incidents, where victims were shot and injured during altercations, including disputes near taverns over parking. At least four firearms were seized during the past seven days, and all suspects involved have been arrested. With regard to sexual offences, 14 suspects were traced and arrested by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Units from Phuthaditjhaba, Bethlehem, Ficksburg, and Vrede. These cases involve allegations of rape and sexual assault, with victims ranging from minors to adults. It was noted with concern that some victims were attacked while walking alone at night from taverns, particularly in the Qwaqwa area. In Mashaeng township near Fouriesburg, a woman was arrested for the alleged rape of a 20-year-old man. The arrest was made with the assistance of the local Community Police Forum. In addition, 14 suspects were arrested for police action crimes involving the possession of suspected stolen property. Items recovered include livestock (sheep), electrical appliances, paint, copper pipes, clothing, and corrugated iron. All suspects have appeared before various Magistrates’ Courts and remain in custody pending trial. These incidents highlight the level of violence within communities, often linked to alcohol abuse and domestic-related conflicts. Community members are urged to refrain from purchasing stolen goods and to report criminal activities to the police. The public is also advised to avoid walking alone at night, particularly after visiting taverns. The South African Police Service remains committed to serving communities with pride and dignity and encourages continued cooperation from the public to ensure that perpetrators of crime are brought to justice. Ends
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