Man who threatened to kill white farmer found dead in bed

Sikwane village in Kgatleng East is gripped by shock and speculation following the sudden death of a 38-year-old man at Phataneng ward.

The man, who lived alone, was discovered by a neighbour lying lifeless on his bed. Soon after the discovery, whispers spread across the village, with many alleging that he may have taken his own life by drinking a poisonous substance.

The speculation stems from the fact that he was due to appear in court for a 'threat to kill' case, after allegedly attempting to take the life of a white farmer at Segakangweng farms.

However, residents’ theories took a twist when police confirmed that a note was found inside the house. The note, instead of suggesting suicide, named an individual allegedly responsible for his death.

Mmathubudukwane Police Station Commander, Superintendent Mmoloki Mogale, confirmed the development.

“He has been buried, but we are still questioning the person whose name appears in the note. That individual is cooperating in our investigations,” Mogale said.

The deceased’s relatives told police they were not aware of anything that could have led to his death, saying he was a lively man, although he often kept to himself.

Opinion is divided in the village. An elderly man who spoke to The Midweek Sun said he never believed the gentleman committed suicide.

“People are saying he killed himself because of the case he was facing, but I don't believe it. He was too strong for that.”

Another resident added, “If he wrote a note with a name, then clearly he wanted us to know who is behind his death. This is troubling,” she said.

What deepens the mystery is that the person named in the note is not the same individual whom the deceased had allegedly threatened at the farms.

This has fueled suspicion for some in the community that he may have been silenced. Investigations are ongoing on the matter.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Mogale raised concerns about another troubling practice in his policing area.

He revealed that residents continue to set wire traps for wild animals without permits in the Madikwe River, which often leads to unintended consequences.

“During one of our patrols, we removed around 18 traps. The danger is that even cattle get caught. In some cases, when a cow is trapped, it is not released but killed for consumption. This is a serious issue,” Mogale said.