Upington: 14-year-old boy killed over ‘dagga’ theft

Police have arrested three suspects following the killing of 14-year-old boy Cashwin Diteho who was burnt to death after being accused of stealing “dagga” (or cannabis) in Paballelo, Upington.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Elvis Bongani Sikepe, 38 Isaacs Vywers, 19 and Thomas Christopher Rodney Lebitsa, 19 have appeared in the Upington Magistrates’ Court on charges of murder and kidnapping.

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NPA spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane said, “It is alleged that on the evening of 1 August 2023, the accused had arrived at the victim’s home who was sleeping and demanded that he return the dagga that he had stolen.

“It is alleged that the victim initially denied the accusations, but accused number one, Elvis Sikepe threatened that he will kill him and his friends for taking his dagga. The accused then took the deceased against his will,” Senokoatsane said.

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SA Police Service’s Sergeant, Omphile Masegela said, “The suspects allegedly accused a 14-year-old boy of theft and they allegedly set the deceased alight on Tuesday, 1 August 2023. The boy sadly succumbed to his injuries… (on) 2 August 2023 in hospital.

“The District Commissioner, Major General Thabo Mphuthi is disturbed and condemned these actions. She made an urgent plea to the community to report crime to the police and not take the law into their own hands,” Masegela said.

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The NPA said Sikepe had arrived at the local hospital with Cashwin. The boy had severe burn wounds when he arrived at the hospital and later died of his injuries.

“The matter has been postponed to 10 August 2023 for bail information and possible bail application. The accused have been remanded in custody until their court appearance. Investigations led by police are continuing in this matter,” Senokoatsane said.