’Marafaele Mohloboli

A 24-year-old man was burnt to death by a mob in Ha Tsolo on Friday afternoon after he was accused of being a serial burglar.

According to police spokesperson, Clifford Molefe, the man was from Qoqolosing village in Leribe, but had been living in Ha Tsolo.

However, the Ha Tsolo community on Friday turned against him as they blamed him for housebreaking and theft incidents which have been taking place in the area over recent months.

“When the police came to the scene of crime, it was already too late as the man was already burnt almost beyond recognition. We have since opened a case of murder and are investigating the incident,” said Molefe.

“It is unfortunate we have now opened a case against members of the community who shouldn’t have taken matters into their own hands. They shouldn’t have assaulted or burnt him because by doing so, they committed a crime.”

Senior Inspector Molefe further said on the same day, a man was severely assaulted and torched by the same Ha Tsolo community, but was lucky to survive as the police came to his rescue and take him to Queen ’Mamohato Memorial Hospital where he is recovering.

The man was also accused of committing crime in Ha Tsolo.

“These people who were trying to eradicate crime are now going to face criminal charges. This could have been avoided if they had handled the matter responsibly,” said Senior Inspector Molefe.

“The police appreciate a good working relationship with the public but also urge communities to be responsible when dealing with suspected inciden