Man heavily beat up & thrown into dam after being accused of stealing cellphone at tavern
Man heavily beat up & thrown into dam after being accused of stealing cellphone at tavern! Police in Hartbeespoortdam, North West, have arrested five suspects in connection with the brutal kidnapping and murder of 26-year-old Lesego Klaas Makaku. The incident, rooted in accusations of theft, has sparked outrage and calls for greater community vigilance against crime.
Accusations and Attack
The tragic events unfolded on December 31, 2024, when Makaku and his girlfriend visited a nearby tavern in the Sangiro informal settlement. According to Provincial Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane, Makaku was accused of stealing a cellphone while at the tavern.
“It is alleged that Makaku was forcefully dragged outside the tavern to the street, where he was severely beaten by a group of people,” said Tselanyane.
Eyewitness accounts and police investigations revealed that Makaku was later dragged to a nearby dam and thrown into the water. His T-shirt was recovered near the dam, allegedly taken by his girlfriend, who informed Makaku’s mother of the horrifying events.
Search for the Victim
Following the report from Makaku’s mother, police registered a missing person’s case and launched a search operation. Divers scoured the dam, but Makaku’s body was not immediately recovered.
Preliminary investigations led police to two individuals of interest, who were taken in for questioning on January 2, 2025. During the interrogation, one suspect revealed the location of Makaku’s body.
“Police were directed to bushes near the Sangiro informal settlement, where the half-naked body of Makaku was discovered in the early stages of decomposition,” Tselanyane confirmed.
Three additional suspects were subsequently apprehended at their residences. However, one suspect remains at large.
Legal Proceedings
The five suspects, aged between 19 and 40, are set to appear before the Brits Magistrate’s Court on Monday. They face charges of kidnapping and murder, while the search continues for the remaining suspect.
Condemnation of the Crime
Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in North West, Major General Patrick Asaneng, has condemned the killing of Makaku, labeling it a “barbaric act.”
“This brutal and senseless murder is a stark reminder of the disregard for human life and the law in some communities. Such acts cannot be tolerated,” said Asaneng.
He urged tavern owners, licensed liquor establishments, and their patrons to cooperate with law enforcement to prevent such violent crimes.
“It is unacceptable that these establishments, meant for recreation, are becoming crime hotspots. Many incidents of murder, robbery, assault, and rape are committed by patrons in full view of others, including owners, who fail to intervene or report these crimes to the police,” he added.
Role of Community Leaders
Asaneng also called on Community Policing Forums (CPFs), religious leaders, and other community stakeholders to take an active stand against criminality in public spaces.
“Communities must unite to address the root causes of violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Only through collective effort can we put an end to these atrocities,” he said.
Taverns and Crime Prevention
Taverns and other licensed liquor establishments often become flashpoints for violent crime. The murder of Makaku has renewed discussions about the responsibility of tavern owners and patrons to maintain safety and uphold the rule of law.
Authorities have emphasized the need for stricter regulations and proactive measures to prevent such incidents. Surveillance, security personnel, and closer collaboration with local law enforcement are among the recommendations to improve safety at these establishments.
Community Reactions
Makaku’s murder has sent shockwaves through the Sangiro informal settlement and surrounding areas. Residents have expressed grief and anger, demanding justice for the young man and action to curb violence in the community.
Local organizations have called for initiatives to promote peace and safety, particularly in high-risk areas. Educational campaigns on crime prevention and gender-based violence are also being proposed.
Moving Forward
As the suspects await trial, the focus remains on ensuring justice for Lesego Klaas Makaku. His death serves as a tragic reminder of the urgent need to address the underlying issues contributing to violence in South African communities.
Police have vowed to continue their investigation to apprehend the remaining suspect and bring all involved to justice. Meanwhile, community leaders and authorities are urging a unified effort to combat crime and restore safety in Hartbeespoortdam and beyond.
