Moretele mayor urges unity after string of brutal killings

Masango George Manyike, the mayor of Moretele Local Municipality in the North West province, has condemned a recent wave of violent killings and called on communities to unite against violence after a 27-year-old woman was found dead in Lebotloane village.

What happened

According to The Citizen, the woman was found in a pool of blood in Lebotloane village in the early hours of 1 October 2026. The mayor described the discovery as part of a worrying rise in violent incidents affecting local communities.

Mayor’s response

Manyike offered condolences to the victim’s family and urged calm while law enforcement investigates. He said the matter had become a broader community concern that required collective action.

“On behalf of the Municipality and Council, I wish to convey our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased during this painful time,” Manyike said.

“We call upon community members to remain calm and to allow law enforcement to do their work, while assisting with any information that may lead to the apprehension of the suspect,” he said.

A string of incidents

The Citizen says the Lebotloane killing is one of several violent incidents in Moretele in recent months. Those incidents reported by The Citizen include:

• Another young woman in Lebotloane was previously murdered, after which her boyfriend allegedly took his own life.
• In Danhouse, a young boy allegedly killed his grandparents with a panga.
• In Swartdam, a man remains in custody after allegedly killing two siblings and their boyfriend.
• In another case, a 90‑year‑old woman was allegedly killed by her nephew.

Municipal support and appeal

Manyike confirmed that the municipality will send a delegation to the victim’s family to offer support, counselling and assistance.

“As the Municipality, we will be sending a delegation to the family of the deceased to offer our support, assist where possible, and provide counselling,” he said.

The mayor also urged residents to stand together against gender‑based violence and all forms of violent crime and to report abuse or information to the police.

“We urge our communities to stand together against gender‑based violence and all forms of violent crime. Let us protect one another and report any form of abuse,” Manyike said.

Call to action

Manyike urged anyone with information about the incidents to contact police immediately.