Initiation elders arrested for damaging house in Limpopo
Four initiation elders from Ga-Phooko village, Mopani in Limpopo, have been granted bail following their arrest for damaging household items at a female resident’s home for playing loud music.
It is said that on 24 June 2025, the four initiation elders allegedly entered the property without permission and proceeded inside the house where the music was being played.
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During the incident, they allegedly damaged various household items including a DVD player, a plasma television, Wi-Fi equipment, chairs and a microwave. The complainant also reported that an undisclosed amount of cash was stolen during the incident.
During the initiation school periods, community members are prohibited from playing loud music.
The four men are:
- Phooko Moyahabo Edwin [42]
- Ramare Mpho Godfrey [36]
- Selowa Kabelo [28]
- Makhumisane Thabang [30]
They made their first court appearance on 27 June 2025, where they were remanded in custody until 3 July 2025.
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During their second court appearance on 3 July 2025, three of the initiation elders were released on free bail, while Phooko Moyahabo Edwin was granted R500.00 bail.
Meanwhile, the Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, calls on all community leaders and elders to ensure that cultural practices are conducted within the bounds of the law and that disputes are resolved through proper channels.
“No one is supposed to take the law into his or her own hands, even with the slightest provocation. There are avenues for members of the community to follow, including reporting the matter to law enforcement authorities or traditional leadership in their respective areas,” said Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe.
