Law enforcement officers across the region are investigating a series of serious incidents over the weekend, including a fatal fire in Shakawe, a murder in Ghanzi, and an armed robbery in Sehithwa.
In Shakawe’s Phachanga ward, tragedy struck late Saturday night when a 73-year-old disabled man died in a hut fire. Shakawe Police Station Commander, Superintendent Ogolotse Tampa, said the alarm was raised shortly before midnight by a resident who feared the man was trapped inside. By the time emergency responders arrived, the flames had engulfed much of the hut.
The victim, badly burnt, was rushed to JP Kavindama Primary Hospital, where medical staff confirmed his death on arrival. Early investigations suggest the blaze may have been caused by an accident involving a lighter, as family members said the man, who lived in an extended family homestead, was a habitual smoker. The body has been sent for a postmortem examination.
Meanwhile, in Ghanzi, police are investigating the murder of a 38-year-old man from Kgaphamadi ward, allegedly stabbed to death during a fight on Sunday evening. Ghanzi Police Station Commander, Superintendent Dennis Zilawe, said two men, aged 36 and 30, are suspected of using a sharp object believed to be a knife to fatally wound the victim. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at Ghanzi Primary Clinic.
The suspects have appeared in court and were remanded in custody pending further investigations. A postmortem will be conducted ahead of their next appearance before the Ghanzi Magistrate Court.
In Sehithwa, police intercepted two armed robbery suspects following a dramatic chase. Superintendent Molly Lebala-Moduke said that around 9 p.m. at night, a 46-year-old man from Kandu ward was accosted by two masked men wielding a knife and an axe. The robbers stole money, cellphones, and tobacco products before fleeing in a vehicle.
Acting on a tip-off, officers intercepted a Volkswagen Golf at the Shashe Bridge heading towards Maun. The stolen property, valued at P14950, only P10713.65 was recovered which was inclusive of P5,753 in cash, was recovered. The suspects, aged 30 from Tini ward, Tutume, and 28 from Boima ward, Madikwe, were taken into custody. Police revealed the 28-year-old was already out on bail for a separate armed robbery case on the 10th of January 2024 in front of FNB new Mall in Maun.
The suspects are expected to appear before court as police investigations into all three incidents are ongoing.
Superintendent Lebala-Moduke urged businesses to avoid closing late and to participate in police-led community meetings at local Kgotla gatherings. “We continue to sensitize the public on safety measures, and we encourage people to practice the lessons shared to prevent such crimes,” she said.
