Staff Reporter
A man from Bethlehem is battling for life in hospital after community members attacked him Sunday morning on suspicion that he had stabbed and killed a friend following an argument while drinking.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Thandi Mbambo said residents of Bohlokong township in Bethlehem also closed one of the main streets in the area after they beat up the 27-year-old suspect.
“(The suspect) has been referred to a local hospital with serious injuries,” said Mbambo in a statement.
“Bohlokong SAPS and Bethlehem (Public Order Policing) are at the scene monitoring the situation,” she said, adding De Viliers Street in Bohlokong has been closed with burning tyres.
It is believed the deceased, aged 30 years old, was stabbed by the accused in the early hours of Sunday while out drinking.
The two are said to be friends.
According to the police, the two were drinking with other friends when an argument ensued between them.
“The suspect allegedly pulled the deceased outside the room where they were drinking in and stabbed him with a knife,” said Mbambo in the statement.
The deceased was found with multiple stab wounds.
Cases of violent attacks after drinking are said to be on the increase after the government lifted a ban on the sale of alcohol at the beginning of the month.
Last week, a couple was killed at their house in Rheederspark, Welkom, after their guests allegedly refused to leave when they were told it was getting late.
The couple were shot on their heads and their daughter survived a rape attempt while their neighbour was raped by several men during the violent incident.