Detectives from the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Capricorn District have arrested three suspects, aged between 38 and 58, in connection with the brutal murder of a man who was later burned beyond recognition in the Botlokwa policing precinct on Thursday.
The suspects are expected to appear before the Morebeng Magistrate's Court today on charges of murder.
"On the day of the incident, an anonymous call was received by the Community Service Centre (CSC), reporting that a person was on fire at the sports ground," the South African Police Service said in a statement.
"Police responded immediately and the body of a male victim, burned beyond recognition, was discovered at the scene. No bystanders were present to provide information.
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"A thorough investigation was launched by the Morebeng Detectives. Through information provided by community members, it was revealed that the victim had allegedly been caught stealing at a house in the Makgato Section," the police said.
The man was reportedly assaulted with a spade at the residence before community members were called to the scene.
The victim was then tied with wire and dragged to the Marumo Fase Sports Ground. There, he was further assaulted with various objects before being set alight.
On Friday, detectives operationalised the information and successfully arrested three suspects at their respective homesteads.
Police investigations are continuing and efforts are underway to trace and apprehend additional suspects involved in this act of mob justice.
