Mr Thompson Nukeri (55) of Mphagani village outside Giyani and his family of seven have nowhere to sleep, after their eight-roomed house was burnt down last Tuesday night.

It is alleged that the angry mob had mobilised and burnt down the house, following the death of a 35-year-old man in the area. It is alleged that the deceased was killed by Mr Nukeri's son.

Mr Thompson Nukeri (55) and his family are now living at a place of safety, fearing the mob. The family says they only left with clothes they are wearing since all their belongings, including cell phones, school uniforms, household equipement and a vehicle, were set alight. The damage is estimated at about R800 000.

Nukeri alleges that his son, who is in his 30s, had fought with another local man over a girlfriend. He mentioned that the fight took place about two weeks ago. The other man was injured during the incident, Nkuri said. The injured man was admitted to the hospital, treated and later discharged, said Nukeri.

Last Monday, the 35-year-old man died unexpectedly at his home and the community insisted that the suspect, together with his family, should leave the area immediately.

One community member, who wanted to remain anonymous, said it was the village’s rule that if any member from a family commited a crime, the offender would not be accommodated anymore.

“It was around 20:00 when I heard the mob chanting at my gate. They did not allow me to explain, but they started to assault me. Fortunately, six family members who were in the house managed to escape from the angry mob. I could not believe it when I found myself standing about 300 meters away, looking at my house that was already on fire. My car had also been set alight by then. I had to search for where my other family members were hiding,” said Nukeri.

Nukeri said he was a crime fighter in the village and he had taken his son to the police. WO Seth Magadzi of Giyani police confirmed the incident. “Twelve people were arrested and charged with public violence, arson and malicious damage to property. We urge the community to not take the law into their own hands. They should rather consult the police," said Magadzi.

The arrested people will appear in the Giyani Magistrate's Court soon. More arrests are expected.