Suspected mob attack leaves one dead and another hospitalised in Oshakati

By: Maria Namupala 

A suspected housebreaking incident turned fatal on Friday night after a group of villagers allegedly beat a man to death and severely injured another in a suspected act of mob justice near Othingo Village in the Oshana Region. 

​According to the latest police crime report, the incident occurred around 23h00, on the gravel road leading to the town’s graveyard.

Six suspects have been arrested in connection with the murder.

It is alleged that the group attacked two men using fresh palm branches, fresh camel thorn branches as well as their fists and open hands.

​The victims were reportedly stripped naked during the assault, one man succumbed to his injuries at the scene, the second victim, a 28-year-old male, survived the attack and is currently in a stable condition at the Oshakati Intermediate State Hospital.

​Police investigations revealed that the survivor was allegedly a victim of mistaken identity, as he had reportedly been in the area simply to visit his girlfriend when reportedly mob turned on him.

The motive is believed to be a reaction to housebreakings in the area.

The police continue to discourage members of the public from taking the law into their own hands.

The deceased has not been identified.​

Investigations into the matter continue.