A herdboy from Ha ’Manteko in Qacha’s Nek remains in police custody, suspected of murdering a 36-year-old man living with a physical disability early on Sunday.
According to Qacha’s Nek Police Station Officer Commanding, Senior Superintendent Thembinkose Sibanda, the incident occurred shortly after a local bar closed, when the two men had separated.
The victim was later discovered dead, without shoes, trousers, or a cap. Senior Superintendent Sibanda said police linked the suspect to the crime after he was seen holding the deceased’s cap during a witness identification process, leading to the recovery of other personal belongings.
Police suspect the deceased was beaten to death with stones. The motive for the killing remains unclear, as the suspect allegedly claims he does not know why he committed the act.
Senior Superintendent Sibanda condemned the killing as brutal and shocking, urging the public to drink responsibly, especially during the festive season. Meanwhile, Ha ’Manteko Councillor Phoka Sekhotla expressed concern, noting similarities to a violent incident reported in the area in 2024.
This is the second violent case reported at Qacha’s Nek Police Station during the festive season, raising concerns over community safety and vigilance.
