Celebration turns fatal: Fireworks spark stabbing and arson in Rustenburg tavern

Police in Lethabong near Rustenburg in North West have opened two cases, one for murder and another for malicious damage to property, following a deadly stabbing early on Thursday, January 1.

“It is alleged that patrons were at a tavern in Lethabong when some individuals, who were also inside the tavern, started igniting fireworks. Those who were against this confronted them, which led to a fight that started inside the tavern and then moved outside,” Saps spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said.

During the altercation, a 38-year-old man was stabbed with a sharp object and died instantly.

In the aftermath, the group accompanying the deceased allegedly attacked the suspect, who fled the scene on foot. They then set the suspect’s vehicle on fire.

Tselanyane explained the subsequent arrest. “Allegedly, after the suspect learned that his vehicle had been set alight and fearing to return to the tavern, he went to the police station to seek help. After being identified as a murder suspect, he was immediately arrested and detained.”

The 45-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Bafokeng Magistrate’s Court in Tlhabane on Monday, January 5, on a charge of murder. Police have not ruled out further arrests.

Tselanyane also warned about the dangers of reckless behaviour.

“It is disappointing that despite numerous warnings regarding the careful use of fireworks, some members of the community continue to act recklessly to an extent of even discharging fireworks in a tavern and a person end up losing a life,” he said.

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