Police say robbery is believed to be the motive behind the murder of a 23-year-old shopkeeper who was found dead inside his tuck shop in Matiwaneskop, northern KwaZulu-Natal.
Two teenagers, aged 18 and 19, are expected to appear in the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday in connection with the killing of the Ethiopian national.
KwaZulu-Natal SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said police responded to a report of murder on Thursday, 25 June, where they discovered the victim’s body inside the shop with multiple stab wounds.
“The motive of the killing is believed to be robbery,” Netshiunda said.
The suspects were arrested in Elandslaagte on Sunday following an investigation into the incident.
Meanwhile, police have appealed to communities across KwaZulu-Natal to refrain from taking the law into their own hands ahead of planned demonstrations linked to the June 30 protests.
Acting Provincial Police Commissioner Major General Phumelele Makoba urged residents to report criminal activity to law enforcement instead of resorting to vigilantism, warning that criminal elements can exploit otherwise peaceful marches.
Makoba said while the right to protest is protected, unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated.
“As we approach this day, there are marches that have been happening, but some of these marches or demonstrations, even though they were for a good cause, have criminal elements hijacking those marches that were supposed to be peaceful,” she said.
Police have assured the public that measures are in place to monitor planned gatherings and maintain order during the upcoming demonstrations.