In most communities, death is a somber occasion that is met with mourning and sadness. However, the residents of Praktiseer outside Burgersfort had a different reaction when news broke of the death of Kabelo Phoku, also known as KB.
Allegedly killed by a mob on Friday morning, September 22, locals celebrated the demise of the man they believed to be a feared gangster.
According to reports, Phoku was the alleged leader of a gang in Tubatse that was notorious for committing crimes such as robberies and attempted murders. The residents of Ga Motodi, Praktiseer, Bothashoek, and nearby villages had lived in fear of this gang for far too long.
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The events leading to Phoku’s death unfolded in the early hours of the morning. At around 04:30, Phoku was caught in the act of robbing a resident. Armed with a knife, he stabbed a man who was on his way to work.
However, the victim fought back, and a crowd quickly gathered to assist him. In the ensuing chaos, the mob allegedly took matters into their own hands and killed Phoku.
Photos of Phoku’s lifeless body circulated on social media shortly after his death. The images showed a bloodied Phoku dressed in a white T-shirt and a black jacket, lying next to a street. In one of the pictures, a broken bottle can be seen near his bloodied head.
When Lebowakgomo pathologists arrived to collect Phoku’s body, the community members who had gathered at the scene expressed their delight. They sang, whistled, chanted, and ululated as his lifeless body was loaded into the vehicle.
It was a bittersweet moment for many, acknowledging that while death should not be celebrated, Phoku’s reign of terror had come to an end.
An elderly man at the scene reflected on the situation, saying, ‘Although death is not something to be celebrated, I don’t blame the people who are rejoicing today.
This man stabbed and robbed many people in Ga Motodi, Praktiseer, Bothashoek, and nearby villages. He was feared by all.’
While the celebration of Phoku’s death may be seen as controversial, it sheds light on the desperation and fear that communities experience when faced with rampant crime. It serves as a reminder that communities are resilient and will celebrate when their safety is restored.
A villager, who preferred anonymity, said they felt relieved and hoped that his death will result in the gang disbanding and allow them to live in peace and harmony.
Limpopo SAPS spokesman, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, said investigations are being conducted into the murder. He promised to provide much information on the incident at a later stage.
