| 2025/03/22 |
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Media Statement
POLOKWANE – The police in Giyani have arrested a 46-year-old male suspect following an alleged incident of arson that occurred on 20 March 2025 at approximately 21:00 at Homu 14B village, outside Giyani. According to reports, a 36-year-old female victim, residing at Homu 14B village, was inside her shack when she allegedly heard her ex-boyfriend threatening to burn down her residence. Upon opening the door, the victim saw the suspect inside her yard, holding a container believed to contain petrol and a box of matches. Fearing for her safety, the victim fled the shack and hid nearby. The suspect allegedly proceeded to puncture a JoJo water tank with a sharp object before pouring a flammable substance over the shack and setting it alight. Emergency services, including the police and fire brigade, responded to the scene, but the shack and property valued at approximately R20 000 were completely destroyed by the fire. Cases of arson and malicious damage to property were immediately opened, and the suspect, who resides in the same village, was swiftly apprehended. Preliminary investigations further revealed that the victim had an active protection order against the suspect. The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has strongly condemned all acts of gender-based violence and urged community members experiencing threats or abuse to seek assistance without delay. She further commended the police for their swift response in apprehending the suspect.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 24 March 2025, facing charges of arson, malicious damage to property and violation of a protection order.
Enquiries:
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