SANDF MEMBER WHO ALLEGEDLY ASSAULTED A 61-YEAR-OLD MAN WITH A PICK HANDLE IN THOHOYANDOU TO APPEAR IN COURT
POLOKWANE – A 42-year-old member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is expected to appear before the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 12 January 2026, on a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) after allegedly assaulting a 61-year-old man with a wooden pick handle on Friday, 9 January 2026, at approximately 17:15 at Tshirenzheni village.
It is alleged that the complainant was asleep when the suspect arrived at his residence, shouting angrily. When he went outside to investigate, the suspect allegedly assaulted him several times on the head with the pick handle, causing serious injuries. The complainant was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment.
The suspect, who is stationed at the Vuwani Military Base and holds the rank of Sergeant, was arrested on Sunday, 11 January 2026, and remains in police custody pending his court appearance.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo has strongly condemned the incident, stating that “acts of violence, particularly against elderly members of the community, will not be tolerated. The law applies equally to everyone, regardless of position or occupation.”
Police investigations are continuing.
